Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS)

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.

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(C) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution:(b) 2 only

Reasons: 

To identify and safeguard eco-friendly traditional farm practices and their associated landscapers, agricultural biodiversity and    knowledge systems of the local communities

To safeguard and support the world’s agricultural heritage systems, in 2002 FAO started an initiative for the dynamic conservation of Globally Important Agricultural Heritage systems (GIAHS). Hence, modern technology, training in modern farming methods aren't relevant here.

GIAHS initiative intends to safeguard the social, cultural, economic and environmental goods and services of these heritage systems. So, 2 is correct.

Geographical Indication status is accorded to products from a certain geographical origin (e.g. Darjeeling Tea) and is not relevant to traditional agricultural systems.