The year 2016 was declared as the International Year of Pulses by the United Nations due to several advantages associated with the cultivation of pulses. Some of these advantages include:

1. Nutritional value: Pulses are a rich source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an essential part of a balanced diet. They provide a sustainable and affordable source of plant-based protein for millions of people worldwide.

2. Soil fertility: Pulses have the unique ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form by forming a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root nodules. This process enriches the soil with nitrogen, enhancing its fertility and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.

3. Environmental sustainability: Pulses have a low carbon footprint as they require less water and have a smaller environmental impact compared to other crops. Their cultivation can also help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions by sequestering carbon dioxide in the soil.

4. Crop rotation and pest management: Including pulses in crop rotation cycles helps break disease and pest cycles, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. They play a crucial role in promoting sustainable farming practices and reducing the reliance on harmful agrochemicals.

5. Food security and biodiversity: Pulses are a crucial component of food security, particularly in developing countries, as they provide a nutritious and affordable source of food. Additionally, the cultivation of diverse pulse varieties promotes biodiversity and helps in preserving traditional farming practices.

6. Economic benefits: The cultivation and trade of pulses contribute to rural development and livelihoods. Pulses are a valuable cash crop for farmers, providing income and employment opportunities, especially in rural areas.

These advantages highlight the importance of promoting and enhancing the cultivation of pulses, leading to the recognition of the International Year of Pulses in 2016, aiming to raise awareness about their significance in sustainable agriculture, food security, and nutrition.

The United Nations declared 2016 as the International Year of Pulses to highlight the numerous benefits of pulse cultivation. Here are some key advantages that contributed to this declaration:

Nutritional Benefits:

• High in protein: Pulses are a great source of plant-based protein, making them crucial for food security, especially in developing countries.
• Rich in fiber: They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and lowering cholesterol levels.
• Good source of micronutrients: Pulses provide essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, folate, and potassium.

Environmental Benefits:

• Nitrogen fixation: Pulses have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil, which helps replenish nitrogen levels naturally. This reduces the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, minimizing environmental impact.
• Soil health: They improve soil structure and fertility through their deep roots and nitrogen fixation.
• Water conservation: Pulses are generally drought-tolerant, making them suitable for regions with limited water resources.

Economic Benefits:

• Increased food security: Pulses are affordable and provide a reliable source of nutrients for diverse populations.
• Sustainable agriculture: Pulse production contributes to sustainable agricultural practices, promoting long-term food security.
• Market potential: The demand for pulses is increasing globally due to their health and environmental benefits, creating economic opportunities for farmers.

Other Advantages:

• Versatile food source: Pulses are highly versatile and can be incorporated into various dishes, contributing to diverse diets.
• Reduced greenhouse gas emissions: By reducing the need for nitrogen fertilizers, pulse cultivation contributes to a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions.

Overall, the International Year of Pulses aimed to raise awareness about the many benefits of pulse cultivation, encouraging increased production, consumption, and research to address global challenges related to food security, nutrition, and environmental sustainability.

The United Nations declared 2016 as the International Year of Pulses (IYP) to highlight the importance of pulses and their numerous benefits. Here are some advantages of pulse cultivation that led to this declaration:

1. Protein-rich food source: Pulses are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them an ideal food for human consumption, particularly in regions where protein deficiency is prevalent.
2. Sustainable agriculture: Pulses have a low carbon footprint, require minimal water and chemical inputs, and promote soil fertility, making them an environmentally friendly crop to cultivate.
3. Food security: Pulses are a vital source of nutrition for millions of people, especially in developing countries, and can help address food security challenges.
4. Climate resilience: Pulses are more resilient to climate change than other crops, as they can tolerate extreme weather conditions, such as drought and heat.
5. Soil health: Pulses have nitrogen-fixing properties, which enrich the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers and promoting soil health.
6. Biodiversity: Pulses come in a variety of species, which helps maintain crop diversity, reducing dependence on a single crop and promoting ecosystem balance.
7. Livestock feed: Pulses can be used as a nutritious feed for animals, enhancing their health and productivity.
8. Economic benefits: Pulse cultivation can provide income opportunities for smallholder farmers, particularly in rural areas, and contribute to the local economy.
9. Improved nutrition: Pulses are rich in micronutrients, such as iron, zinc, and potassium, which are essential for human health and development.
10. Global trade: The global pulse trade can help bridge the gap between pulse-surplus and pulse-deficit regions, promoting food availability and access.

By declaring 2016 as the International Year of Pulses, the United Nations aimed to raise awareness about the importance of pulses, promote their cultivation and consumption, and encourage sustainable agriculture practices.