Daily Current Affairs : 19-July-2023
The Genetic Resources Commission for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA) is a crucial intergovernmental body that plays a significant role in safeguarding biodiversity, promoting nutrition, and enhancing human health worldwide. Established in 1983, the CGRFA consists of 179 member countries and the European Union, with its headquarters based in Rome, Italy. Every two years, the Commission convenes its regular sessions to discuss and address various issues related to genetic resources and their sustainable utilization.
What is CGRFA?
The CGRFA is an indispensable global organization that deals comprehensively with all aspects of biodiversity concerning food and agriculture. Its primary mission is to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources relevant to food and agriculture while also fostering equitable sharing of the benefits derived from these resources.
Functions of CGRFA
- Coordination and Policy Development :The CGRFA acts as a coordinating body, facilitating discussions and collaboration between member countries on various policies, sectorial matters, and cross-sectorial initiatives pertaining to genetic resources. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, it helps develop unified strategies to address the challenges faced in conserving and utilizing genetic resources effectively.
- Monitoring Genetic Resources : One of the critical responsibilities of the Commission is to monitor and assess the state of the world’s genetic resources for food and agriculture. This monitoring process involves collecting data and evaluating the status of various genetic resources, including crops, livestock, and other relevant organisms. Understanding the current state helps to identify areas that require conservation efforts and appropriate interventions.
- International Consensus Building :The CGRFA strives to achieve international consensus on policies and action programs related to the conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources for food and agriculture. Through dialogue and negotiations, member countries work together to formulate effective strategies that promote responsible utilization of genetic resources, thereby ensuring their long-term availability for future generations.
- Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits :Ensuring fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from the use of genetic resources is a vital aspect of CGRFA’s mandate. By fostering cooperation and adherence to international agreements, the Commission ensures that the benefits derived from the use of genetic resources are distributed in a just manner, especially for the communities and countries contributing to their preservation.
- Strengthening National and Regional Policies :The CGRFA plays an essential role in strengthening national and regional policies related to biodiversity for food and agriculture. By supporting capacity-building initiatives, the Commission empowers countries to develop effective policies that promote the sustainable use and conservation of their genetic resources.
- Promoting Cooperation and Partnerships : In fostering global biodiversity efforts, the CGRFA promotes collaboration and partnerships among various stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, academia, and civil society. By working together, these partners can pool resources and expertise, leading to more impactful initiatives for biodiversity conservation and food security.
Important Points
- The Genetic Resources Commission for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA) is a permanent intergovernmental body dedicated to biodiversity for food and agriculture.
- Established in 1983, the CGRFA has 179 member countries and the European Union, with its headquarters in Rome, Italy.
- The CGRFA’s functions include coordinating policies, sectorial and cross-sectorial matters related to genetic resources, monitoring the world’s genetic resources for food and agriculture, and striving for international consensus on conservation and sustainable utilization.
- The Commission focuses on fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from genetic resources’ use and contributes to strengthening national and regional policies on biodiversity for food and agriculture.
- CGRFA fosters cooperation and partnerships among governments, international organizations, academia, and civil society to enhance biodiversity conservation and food security efforts.
Why In News
In a landmark assembly held in Rome, the Genetic Resources Commission convenes to engage in crucial discussions on preserving biodiversity, enhancing nutrition, and advancing human health for a sustainable future. Together, delegates from across the globe collaborate to address the urgent challenges posed by the interconnected issues of genetic resources, seeking innovative solutions to foster a healthier and more resilient planet.
MCQs about The Role of CGRFA in Rome
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What is the primary focus of the Genetic Resources Commission for Food and Agriculture (CGRFA)?
A) Monitoring climate change impacts on agriculture.
B) Enhancing international trade in agricultural products.
C) Promoting biodiversity for food and agriculture.
D) Regulating agricultural subsidies.
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What role does the CGRFA play in ensuring fair utilization of genetic resources?
A) Distributing benefits based on the size of the country.
B) Supporting capacity-building initiatives.
C) Allowing unrestricted access to genetic resources.
D) Promoting exclusive rights for developed nations.
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Where is the headquarters of the Genetic Resources Commission for Food and Agriculture located?
A) Paris, France.
B) New York, USA.
C) Rome, Italy.
D) Geneva, Switzerland.
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