Global Pulses Conference

• The Global Pulses Conference, an annual meeting of pulses producers, processors and traders, was recently held in New Delhi.
• It suggested that India augment production of pulses to meet the nutritional requirements.
• India is represented by India Pulses and Grains Association in Global Pulse Confederation
• The two-day conference is jointly organised by the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED) and the Global Pulse Confederation (GPC).

ABOUT PULSES

• Pulses, also known as grain legumes, are a group of 12 crops that includes dry beans, dry peas, chickpeas, and lentils.
• They are high in protein, fibre, and various vitamins, provide amino acids, and are hearty crops.
• They also contribute to soil quality by fixing nitrogen in the soil.
• India is the world’s largest producer and consumer of pulses.
• 2016 was declared as the International Year of Pulses.

ABOUT GPC

• The Global Pulse Confederation (GPC, formerly known as CICILS IPTIC) represents all segments of the pulse industry value chain from growers, researchers, logistics suppliers, traders, exporters and importers to government bodies, multilateral organizations, processors, canners and consumers.
• Its membership includes 24 national associations and over 500 private sector members.
• GPC is based in Dubai and licensed by the Dubai Multi Commodity Centre (DMCC).