The FAO accords the status of 'Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS)' to traditional agricultural systems. What is the overall goal of this initiative? 1. To provide modern technology, training in modern farming methods and financial support to local communities of identified GIAHS so as to greatly enhance their agricultural productivity 2. To identify and safeguard eco-friendly traditional farm practices and their associated landscapes, agricultural biodiversity and knowledge systems of the local communities 3. To provide Geographical Indication status to all the varieties of agricultural produce in such identified GIAHS Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1 and 3 only
- (b) 2 only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Why the answer is (b)
• FAO's GIAHS programme (2002) identifies and safeguards remarkable traditional agricultural systems — their landscapes, agrobiodiversity, indigenous knowledge and cultures — and supports their dynamic conservation (statement 2).
• It does not aim to modernise these systems with technology (1), which would defeat the purpose, nor to grant GI status (3), which is a separate IP mechanism.
• India's GIAHS sites include Koraput (Odisha), Kuttanad below-sea-level farming (Kerala) and Pampore saffron (Kashmir).
• Hence 2 only, option (b).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 and 3 only
- Modernisation and GI status are not GIAHS goals.
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- GI status is not a GIAHS goal.
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
- Statements 1 and 3 are not goals.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2016, held on 7 August 2016. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.