Critical Analysis of the ‘Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS)’ of the FAO: A Case Study of Kuttanad, South India

Abstract

Kuttanad, the broad below-sea-level polder-farming-system located around the Vembanad Ramsar site is the second globally significant agricultural heritage system (GIAHS) of the FAO in South India. At one point in time, Kuttanad was well known for its rich and traditional indigenous farming practices and the associated high aquatic biodiversity. However, intensive green-revolution practices and regular sewage inflow from the up towns over the past few decades caused the entire wetlands to remain eutrophicated. Continuous application of diverse agrochemicals in the paddy fields and leakage of diesel and engine oil from the intensive operation of tourist diesel-boats in the water bodies resulted in excessive accumulation of toxic residues in Kuttanad. The fish and other aquatic biodiversity-wealth of Kuttanad have been destroyed and the farming remains highly uneconomical. Therefore, the 'GIAHS' title of Kuttanad is an opportunity to regain its lost ecological balance. Invitation of global attention to this fact is the principal objective of this investigation.

Digital Ecosystem Model for GIAHS: The Barroso Agro-Sylvo-Pastoral System

“…This challenge is triggered by the inappropriate use of natural resources and socio-economic problems. Improper sanitation, waste carried away to the water bodies (such as plastic waste materials), excessively applied fertiliser and the increase in mechanised farming are some of the factors that lead to severe water, soil, and biodiversity degradation in this region [23].…”