National Day
World Pulses Day
Celebrated on 02/10/2026
Quick Fact
Did you know that pulses are among the most sustainable crops, requiring only about 43 gallons of water to produce one pound of lentils compared to 1,800 gallons for beef? World Pulses Day, celebrated on February 10, was established by the United Nations to highlight the nutritional and environmental benefits of these edible seeds.
Origins and Establishment of World Pulses Day
World Pulses Day was officially designated by the United Nations General Assembly on December 20, 2018, following a proposal by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The first observance took place on February 10, 2019. The date was chosen to build on the success of the International Year of Pulses in 2016, which raised global awareness about the nutritional and environmental benefits of pulses such as beans, lentils, chickpeas, and peas.
Evolution and Modern Commemoration
Since its inception, World Pulses Day has grown into a global campaign involving governments, NGOs, and community organizations. Celebrations include educational workshops, cooking demonstrations, and social media campaigns that emphasize pulses as a key solution to food security and climate change. The day also serves as a platform to promote pulse-based diets, which are rich in protein, fiber, and micronutrients, while supporting sustainable agriculture.
Facts & General Observations
- Pulses are 20-25% protein by weight, making them an excellent plant-based protein source.
- They have a low carbon footprint, emitting only about 0.5 kg of CO2 per kg of pulses, compared to 9-10 kg for beef.
- Over 70 million tons of pulses are produced annually worldwide, with India, Canada, and Myanmar being the top producers.