Daily Current Affairs : 20-December-2023
Amid growing global concerns over deforestation and illicit timber trade, the Government of India has introduced the Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS). This initiative addresses the need for a credible national certification system in response to doubts surrounding existing global forest certifications.
Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS):
IFWCS focuses on certifying sustainable forest management, covering trees outside forests and ensuring a traceable supply chain for forest products.
Components of IFWCS:
- Certification for Sustainable Forest Management: Ensures sustainable practices in forest management.
- Sustainable Management of Trees Outside Forests: Extends certification to cover trees in plantations.
- Chain of Custody: Guarantees traceability of forest products throughout the supply chain.
Potential Users of Certification:
IFWCS is applicable to forest management units, corporations, wood-based industries, tree growers, traders, saw millers, exporters, importers, and other end-user industries.
Forest Management in India:
Forests in India are managed based on working plans, guided by the Indian Forest Management Standards. Certification is not mandatory but adherence to standards is required for eligibility.
Need for the Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS):
- Global Deforestation Concerns: Doubts about existing certifications raised by the ICIJ impact acceptance in international markets.
- High Dropout Rates: Entities drop certifications due to credibility concerns.
- European and US Markets: Strict import rules affect Indian forest-based products in major export markets.
Government’s Response:
In response to global concerns, the Government of India introduced IFWCS to regulate the market and enhance the credibility of Indian forest-based products.
Significance of the Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS):
- Alternative to Foreign Certifications: IFWCS provides an alternative to foreign agencies.
- Trust and Transparency: Aims to bring trust and transparency to the certification processes.
- Improved International Acceptance: Expected to enhance acceptability in global markets by addressing concerns and meeting international standards.
- Government-Initiated and Backed: Current government involvement adds authority and reliability.
Potential Evolution of IFWCS:
While presently government-driven, there’s potential for IFWCS to evolve into an independent entity, similar to institutions like BIS or QCI, further strengthening autonomy and credibility.
Important Points:
- IFWCS Components:
- Certification for Sustainable Forest Management.
- Sustainable Management of Trees Outside Forests.
- Chain of Custody for traceability in the supply chain.
- Potential Users of Certification:
- Applicable to forest management units, corporations, wood-based industries.
- Also includes tree growers, traders, saw millers, exporters, importers, and end-user industries.
- Forest Management in India:
- Based on working plans and guided by Indian Forest Management Standards.
- Certification not mandatory but adherence to standards required for eligibility.
- Need for IFWCS:
- Global Deforestation Concerns: ICIJ raises doubts about existing certifications.
- High Dropout Rates: Entities withdraw due to credibility concerns.
- Impact on European and US Markets: Strict import rules affect major export markets.
- Government’s Response:
- Introduction of IFWCS to regulate the market and enhance credibility.
- Significance of IFWCS:
- Alternative to Foreign Certifications: Provides a government-backed option.
- Trust and Transparency: Aims to improve certification processes.
- Improved International Acceptance: Expected to address global concerns and meet standards.
- Government-Initiated and Backed: Current involvement adds authority and reliability.
- Potential Evolution of IFWCS:
- Government-driven at present.
- Potential for IFWCS to evolve into an independent entity, similar to BIS or QCI.
- Enhances autonomy and credibility.
Why In News
Amid rising international concerns on deforestation and illicit trade in timber, the Government of India has launched its own national forest certification scheme – The Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS), reaffirming its commitment to sustainable forestry practices and fostering responsible management of its rich biodiversity.
MCQs about IFWCS
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What are the components of IFWCS addressing sustainable forest management?
A. Single Certification
B. Sustainable Management of Trees in Forests
C. Certification for Sustainable Forest Management, Sustainable Management of Trees Outside Forests, Chain of Custody
D. Traceability in the Supply Chain
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Who are the potential users of IFWCS certification?
A. Only forest management units
B. Only wood-based industries
C. Forest management units, corporations, wood-based industries, tree growers, traders, and more
D. Limited to government entities
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What is the significance of IFWCS in relation to international trade?
A. It is mandatory for all Indian forest divisions.
B. It serves as an alternative to foreign certification agencies.
C. IFWCS has no impact on international trade.
D. It is solely aimed at the domestic market.
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