Pulses occupy a unique position in sustainable food and farming systems because they contribute to both human nutrition and soil health. Chickpea, pigeonpea, lentil, mungbean, blackgram and other grain legumes are important sources of plant protein, dietary fibre, minerals and vitamins. Their nutritional contribution is particularly relevant in cereal-dominated diets and resource-constrained regions. At the same time, pulse crops form symbiotic associations with nitrogen-fixing microorganisms, enabling biological nitrogen fixation and contributing to nutrient cycling. When incorporated into crop rotations, intercropping and conservation-oriented farming systems, pulses can improve soil organic matter, microbial activity, nutrient-use efficiency and resource conservation. Their adaptability to rainfed environments further strengthens their role in climate-resilient agriculture. Thus, pulses can contribute simultaneously to nutritional security, soil restoration and sustainable agricultural production.
Singh, A., Singh, R.P., Bagora, R., 2026. Pulses: A nutritional resource and a natural ally of soil health. Biotica Research Today 8(6), 107-111.
Biological nitrogen fixation, Human nutrition, Pulses, Soil health, Sustainable agriculture
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