Dear participants,
I am very happy that members of this forum are not only expressing their opinions about pulses but are also sharing interesting material about pulses around the world. This information will help us to sharpen the focus of the second half of the 2016 International Year of Pulses.
Participants to this discussion clearly agreed that pulses are of crucial importance for humankind. However, as expressed by Mr. Dhakal, this year should go beyond the raising awareness campaign and work towards helping the most vulnerable farmers. In order to achieve this, research and extension on underutilized pulse species, which in many cases are well adapted to local environmental conditions, should be promoted, as suggested by Prof. KV Peter, and traditional pulse-based dishes that are disappearing should be supported, as pointed out by Prof. Houngbo. In other words, we need to increase the number of pulses that can be grown in marginal areas as suggested by Prof. Howieson.
However, I also believe it is of particular significance to make children realize the importance of pulses, as expressed by Ms. Yesudas; then they will be able to appreciate this kind of food and hopefully this will support dietary shift as noted by Dr. Boyle.
This discussion will be ongoing until 19.06.2016 and therefore we would appreciate if you could keep contributing and extend this invitation to your colleagues.
Teodardo Calles
Technical expert for the online discussion
Dr. Teodardo Calles