Role of Pulses in Cropping Systems: A Review

Abstract

Climate change threatens global food and economic security. The decreased availability and import of pulses highlight the urgency of increased production. Pulse included cropping systems are the only way to enhance production as the area available are limited. Increased yield at spatial and temporal dimensions are focused here. Cropping system including pulses consists of inter cropping, sequential cropping, mixed cropping, relay cropping and paira/utera cropping. They compete for light, space, residual moisture content and available nutrients with companion crops. They improve soil properties, reduce pest and disease incidence. The specific role of pulses in cropping system includes high carbon sequestration capacity, low carbon footprint, fixing atmospheric nitrogen in soils, low water footprint, hydrogen fertilization of soils and improving soil biodiversity. Since they are easy to cultivate it creates employment opportunities for women. Pulses provide economic profitability to farmers. There lies a promising, sustainable and cost effective solution in these tiniest seeds.