Q. Consider the following statements:
1. India is a member of the International Grains Council.
2. A country needs to be a member of the International Grains Council for exporting or importing rice and wheat.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Correct answer: (a) 1 only
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 GS Paper
Explanation:
1. “India is a member of the International Grains Council.”
This statement is correct. India is indeed a member of the International Grains Council (IGC). The IGC is an intergovernmental organization that seeks to promote cooperation in grains trade, improve market transparency, and contribute to global food security. India, being a major producer and consumer of grains, is an important member of this organization.
2. “A country needs to be a member of the International Grains Council for exporting or importing rice and wheat.”
This statement is incorrect. Membership in the International Grains Council is not a prerequisite for countries to export or import rice and wheat. The IGC serves as a forum for cooperation and information exchange, but it does not regulate or control global grain trade. Countries that are not members of the IGC can still engage in international trade of grains, including rice and wheat.
Therefore, the correct answer is (a) 1 only.