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 landscapers, 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.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) launched the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) initiative in 2002 to conserve agricultural heritage systems dynamically.

Statement 1 is incorrect: The GIAHS initiative focuses on safeguarding traditional agricultural systems. Introducing modern technology and farming methods contradicts this goal.

Statement 2 is correct: The GIAHS initiative aims to safeguard eco-friendly traditional farm practices, associated landscapes, agricultural biodiversity, and local communities' knowledge systems.

Statement 3 is incorrect: Geographical Indication (GI) tags are given to products originating from a specific region (e.g., Hyderabadi Biryani). The GIAHS initiative does not provide GI status to all agricultural produce varieties within the identified systems.

Hence, only statement 2 is correct.

Sources:

• FAO - GIAHS