GLOBALLY IMPORTANT AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE SYSTEMS (GIAHS)

Current Context : Recently, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare informed the Lok Sabha that India currently hosts three Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS).

ABOUT GIAHS PROGRAMME

• Launched by: Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) at the World Summit for Sustainable Development, 2002.
• Purpose:
  • Conserve traditional agricultural systems.
  • Promote sustainable adaptation and socio-economic development.
  • Address threats like climate change, displacement, and biodiversity loss.
• Approach: Multistakeholder model providing:
  • Technical assistance.
  • Promotion of traditional agricultural knowledge.
  • Market opportunities through agrotourism and product branding.

INDIA’S GIAHS SITES

1. Koraput Region (Odisha)
   • Known for subsistence paddy cultivation on highland slopes.
   • Rich in paddy landraces and farmer-developed varieties.
   • Repository of medicinal plants and tribal knowledge systems.
2. Kuttanad System (Kerala)
   • Unique below-sea-level farming system.
   • Uses wetlands for paddy and fish cultivation.
   • Combines coconut gardens, fishing, and shell collection.
3. Saffron Park (Jammu & Kashmir)
   • Traditional saffron cultivation system with intercropping.
   • Emphasises organic farming practices.
   • Maintains biodiversity and improves soil health.