Brussels, (Unib Rashid) — World Pulses Day 2026 was observed in Pakistan under the “SAWIE Ecosystems” initiative, highlighting the critical role of pulses in sustainable food systems, human nutrition, and environmental health.

World Pulses Day, celebrated annually on February 10, is a United Nations–designated day that recognizes the importance of pulses including (lentils, chickpeas, beans, and peas) in promoting sustainable agriculture and global food security.

According to the UN,the 2026 theme focuses on positioning these nutrient-rich crops at the forefront of healthy diets and resilient, sustainable agri-food systems.

At the other hand,according to ‘SAWIE Ecosystems’ , an organization working to advance agricultural development in Pakistan through technology-driven solutions for farmers, this year’s observance emphasized the role of pulses within its regenerative cotton farming program. The initiative draws attention to how pulses contribute to soil regeneration, rural livelihood enhancement, and climate-smart agriculture.

SAWIE Ecosystems stressed that pulses are more than just a food crop. When integrated into cotton-based farming systems under the Regen Cotton Cluster – SAWIE model, pulses play a foundational role in restoring soil productivity and strengthening climate-resilient farming practices. One of the most effective approaches promoted is cotton–legume intercropping, particularly cotton grown alongside mung bean.

As leguminous crops, pulses naturally fix atmospheric nitrogen, improving soil fertility and reducing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. This not only lowers farmers’ production costs but also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, pulses improve soil structure through their root systems, enhance water retention, stimulate microbial activity, and contribute to healthier soils after harvest.

SAWIE Ecosystems noted that for smallholder farmers, integrating pulses into cotton systems offers multiple benefits, including reduced input costs, improved overall yields, better crop rotation outcomes, and increased resilience to climate stress and yield variability.

Beyond farming systems, pulses offer broader benefits for people and the planet. They provide affordable, high-quality plant-based protein, support agrobiodiversity within agricultural landscapes, and serve as a low-carbon pathway toward more sustainable and resilient food systems.

From regenerating cotton soils to strengthening food security and rural livelihoods, pulses demonstrate how nature-positive agricultural practices can simultaneously benefit farmers, biodiversity, and climate goals.

According to SAWIE Ecosystems, these efforts in Pakistan are being advanced through the Climate Smart Village Initiative (CSVI) with the support of (BAL) Bank.