The International Conference on Pulses: Smart Crops for Agricultural Sustainability and Nutritional Security (ICPulses2023) was held from February 10-12, 2023, at the NASC Complex, Pusa Campus, New Delhi. Organized by the ICAR-Indian Institute of Pulses Research (IIPR), Kanpur, and the Indian Society of Pulses Research and Development (ISPRD), the conference was conducted in collaboration with national partners, including the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare (MoA&FW, GoI), NAAS, PGA, NAAS, and NABARD, as well as international organizations such as ICARDA, World Vegetable Center, GEF, UN Environment Programme, and the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT.
Coinciding with World Pulses Day 2023, the conference was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Shri Kailash Chaudhary, who lauded the contributions of Indian farmers and ICAR in achieving record pulse production. He acknowledged the efforts of scientists in developing 313 improved pulse varieties between 2014 and 2022 and emphasized the success of the seed hub model in ensuring seed sufficiency in pulse crops. He also highlighted various government policies and schemes aimed at supporting farmers and enhancing pulse productivity.
The event brought together 584 participants, including leading scientists, policymakers, industry representatives, and researchers, to discuss the critical role of pulses in sustainable agriculture, food security, and human nutrition. With pulses recognized as climate-resilient crops that enhance soil fertility and support diversified farming systems, discussions focused on recent advancements in pulse breeding, genomics, agronomy, and value chain development.
The conference featured keynote addresses by eminent scientists, technical sessions on cutting-edge research in pulses, and panel discussions on policy frameworks to promote pulse cultivation and consumption. Participants underscored the need for increased research investments, technology adoption, and policy support to enhance pulse productivity and farmer profitability.
ICPulses2023 reaffirmed the significance of pulses as smart crops for achieving agricultural sustainability and nutritional security, aligning with national and global priorities for resilient and sustainable food systems.
