Pulse self-sufficiency: NAFED to co-host Global Pulse Convention in Feb

Nafed, in alignment with Union Minister Amit Shah’s commitment to achieve self-sufficiency in pulses by 2027-28, has taken a proactive step by deciding to co-host the Global Pulse Convention scheduled for February in Delhi.

During a recent press conference and subsequent press release, Nafed announced the collaboration with the Global Pulse Confederation (GPC) to organize the Global Pulse Convention 2024 at the Taj Palace Hotel in New Delhi from February 14th to 17th.

Vijay Iyengar, the President of the GPC Board, highlighted that the event aims to facilitate a dynamic exchange of insights among industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders, shaping the future of the global pulses industry.

The announcement, made last Friday, featured insights from Rohit Kumar Singh, the Secretary of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, shedding light on the future of the pulses market.

Nafed’s Managing Director, Ritesh Chauhan, and Additional Managing Director, Sunil Kumar Singh, also shared their perspectives during the press meet, emphasizing collaborative efforts toward improving the pulses ecosystem.

Vijay Iyengar underscored the crucial role of pulses in sustainable food systems and commended India’s initiatives to boost domestic production. He praised the government’s efforts and welcomed the recent launch of Nafed’s integrated portal, enabling direct online purchase of Pigeon Pea (Arhar) from farmers, expressing optimism about its potential to encourage increased pulse cultivation.

Known for organizing annual conferences dedicated to the pulses industry, GPC has a history of hosting international conventions worldwide. The upcoming event in New Delhi builds on the success of the 2023 convention in Sydney, Australia. With an expected attendance of over 800 participants from more than 40 countries, the convention aims to leverage India’s position as the world’s largest producer and consumer of pulses.

Going beyond information exchange and networking, GPC is committed to promoting pulses as smart crops for a sustainable future. The organization has played a significant role in global initiatives, such as designating 2016 as the UN FAO International Year of Pulses and establishing February 10 as World Pulses Day. GPC also contributed to the UN CoP28 summit on climate change in December 2023.

The Pulses24 convention intends to amplify the message of pulses as smart crops, fostering collaboration and innovation. Featuring exclusive panel discussions, high-level speakers, and networking opportunities, the event anticipates the presence of distinguished guests.