World Pulses Day: Meaning, Theme, Importance & Types of Pulses

World Pulses Day is a global observance dedicated to recognising the importance of pulses as a vital food source for nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and environmental protection. Observed every year on 10 February, the day highlights how pulses contribute to food security, healthy diets, soil fertility, and climate resilience.

This international day is officially recognised by the United Nations and supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to promote awareness about pulses and their role in achieving the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

When is World Pulses Day Celebrated?

World Pulses Day is celebrated on 10 February every year.

The day has been observed annually since 2019, following its designation by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in December 2018.

Why is World Pulses Day Celebrated?

World Pulses Day was established after the International Year of Pulses (2016) received global success. Recognising the long-term value of pulses, the UN declared 10 February as World Pulses Day to:

• Promote nutrition and healthy diets

• Encourage sustainable food systems

• Support farmers and rural livelihoods

• Reduce hunger and malnutrition

• Improve soil health and biodiversity

In simple words, World Pulses Day celebrates pulses as food for people, soil, and the planet.

World Pulses Day Theme 2026

The theme of World Pulses Day 2026, observed on 10 February, is “Pulses of the World: From Modesty to Excellence”.

This theme highlights the remarkable journey of pulses—from humble, traditional crops to globally recognised superfoods that support nutrition, sustainability, and food security. It emphasises how simple, nutrient-dense seeds like lentils, chickpeas, beans, and peas have evolved into essential components of modern, sustainable diets across the world.

Key Focus Areas of the World Pulses Day 2026 Theme

• From Humble Origins to Global Impact
  The theme showcases how pulses, once considered basic staples, now play a central role in culinary innovation, healthy diets, and climate-smart agriculture.
  
  

• Global Collaboration
  The main World Pulses Day 2026 global event is hosted in collaboration with the Kingdom of Spain at the Miguel Delibes Cultural Centre, Valladolid, highlighting international cooperation in building sustainable agrifood systems.
  
  

• Science Meets Food Culture
  The 2026 celebration blends scientific discussions with culinary demonstrations, encouraging the integration of pulses into everyday meals in creative, nutritious, and sustainable ways.
  
  

• Supporting the UN 2030 Agenda
  Pulses are recognised for improving soil fertility, biodiversity, and ecosystem health, while providing affordable nutrition—directly supporting the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
  
  

Overall, World Pulses Day 2026 encourages people, communities, and governments to increase the production and consumption of pulses to protect both human health and planetary health.

What are Pulses? (Pulses Meaning)

Pulses are the dry edible seeds of legume plants that are harvested for food. They are rich in protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals and are an essential part of diets worldwide.

Pulses Meaning (Simple Definition)

Pulses are dry seeds of legumes used as food, such as lentils, beans, chickpeas, and peas.

Examples of Pulses

Some common pulses examples include:

• Chickpeas (Chana)

• Lentils (Masoor, Moong, Toor)

• Dry beans (Kidney beans, Black beans)

• Dry peas

• Lupins

These foods are affordable, nutritious, and widely consumed across cultures.

Types of Pulses

The main types of pulses consumed globally include:

1. Lentils – Rich in iron and protein

2. Chickpeas – High in fibre and plant protein

3. Dry Beans – Kidney beans, black beans, navy beans

4. Dry Peas – Yellow and green peas

5. Lupins – Protein-rich and climate-resilient

Each pulse type supports both human health and sustainable farming.

Importance of Pulses in Nutrition

Pulses are considered nutrient-dense foods and offer several health benefits:

• High in plant-based protein

• Rich source of dietary fibre

• Low in fat

• Helps control blood sugar and cholesterol

• Supports heart health and weight management

This makes pulses ideal for children, students, adults, and elderly people.

Environmental Benefits of Pulses

Pulses play a major role in sustainable agriculture:

• Fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil

• Improve soil fertility and biodiversity

• Require less water than many crops

• Have a low carbon footprint

• Support climate-resilient farming

Because of this, pulses are often called “climate-smart crops.”

Role of Pulses in Sustainable Development

World Pulses Day is closely linked with the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially:

• Zero Hunger

• Good Health and Well-being

• Climate Action

• Responsible Consumption

• Poverty Reduction

Including pulses in diets helps feed more people sustainably.

World Pulses Day in India

India is:

• One of the largest producers and consumers of pulses

• A major contributor to global pulse cultivation

• Home to diverse pulse varieties grown across states

World Pulses Day encourages Indian farmers to adopt crop rotation and intercropping with pulses to improve productivity and income.

Highlights of World Pulses Day

• Recognised by the United Nations

• Observed globally on 10 February

• Supported by FAO

• Promotes nutrition, sustainability, and food security

• Educates people about pulses meaning, types, and benefits

World Pulses Day – Key Takeaway

World Pulses Day reminds us that small seeds can make a big difference. Pulses nourish people, protect the environment, and support sustainable agriculture. By increasing awareness and consumption of pulses, the world moves closer to a healthier and more sustainable future.