Global Pulses Conference (GPC) urges India to augment Production of Pulses to meet Nutritional requirements

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GPC is an annual global meet organized by Global Pulse Confederation which represents all segments of pulse industry value chain including growers, researchers, traders, government bodies, etc.
- India is represented by India Pulses and Grains Association in Global Pulse Confederation.
Pulses are a type of leguminous crops that are harvested solely for dry seeds. e.g., Chickpeas, Pigeon peas, etc.
- Pulses are 20 to 25% protein by weight which is double the protein content of wheat.
Pulses production in India
- Globally, India is largest producer (25%), consumer (27%), and importer (14%) of pulses.
- Chickpea and Pigeon pea constitute ~ 60% of all pulses, both by area cultivated and by production.
- Cultivated in both Kharif and Rabi (over 60% of total production) seasons.
  - MP, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and UP are major pulses producing States.
Significance of Pulses: Improved soil health through Nitrogen fixation, diet diversification to address malnutrition, etc.

Issues with Pulses production in India
- Production: Considered residual crop, grown under rain-fed conditions with limited nutrient management, etc.
- Market: Price volatility due to ‘Cobweb’ phenomenon, inadequate warehousing facilities, etc.
- Policy: Limited focus on R&D on pulses, not the beneficiaries of Green Revolution, etc.