In News:

• The Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) programme, launched by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2002 at the World Summit on Sustainable Development, aims to conserve unique agricultural systems that sustain biodiversity, traditional knowledge, and rural livelihoods while adapting to modern challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and community displacement.
• GIAHS adopts a multi-stakeholder approach by offering technical assistance, enhancing the value of traditional agricultural knowledge, and stimulating markets through agrotourism, product branding, and sustainable value chains.

India’s Recognised GIAHS Sites

Currently, India hosts three GIAHS sites, each reflecting diverse agro-ecological and cultural traditions:

• Koraput Region (Odisha):
  • Known for subsistence paddy cultivation on highland slopes.
  • Conserves a wide range of paddy landraces and farmer-developed varieties.
  • Rich in medicinal plant genetic resources, closely linked with indigenous tribal knowledge.
  • Supported by community seed banks, organic farming practices, and branding initiatives under state biodiversity programmes.
• Kuttanad Farming System (Kerala):
  • A rare below-sea-level farming landscape.
  • Comprises wetlands for paddy, garden lands for coconut and food crops, and inland water bodies for fishing and shell collection.
  • Infrastructure development works under RKVY-DPR projects, such as HaritamHarippad in Alappuzha, and research on ecological utilization of water hyacinth are underway.
• Saffron Heritage of Kashmir:
  • Represents a traditional agro-pastoral system of saffron cultivation.
  • Characterized by organic farming practices, intercropping, and soil conservation.
  • Supported through Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) and the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) for revival and economic sustainability.

National Support Mechanisms

• Government Schemes: RKVY, MIDH, and other sectoral interventions promote conservation, branding, and livelihood opportunities.
• Biodiversity Revival: Emphasis on neglected crops and forgotten foods to ensure resilience.
• Integration with Research: State-supported projects in Kerala and Odisha enhance scientific validation and infrastructure.

Significance

• Ensures balance between conservation and socioeconomic development.
• Protects traditional knowledge systems and cultural landscapes.
• Enhances climate resilience and strengthens India’s commitment to sustainable agriculture.
• Promotes rural development, agrotourism, and niche product markets, thereby contributing to farmer incomes.