Focus: International Relations
Why in News?
The Asia Pacific Plant Protection Commission unanimously elected India as chair of the Standing Committee on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for the biennium 2023-24 during the 32nd Session held in Bangkok.
Asia Pacific Plant Protection Commission: Overview and Objectives
Background:
- The Asia Pacific Plant Protection Commission is an intergovernmental organization established in 1956 under the approval of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
- Its purpose is to foster collaboration among countries in the Asia-Pacific region to enhance plant health and protection.
Membership:
- The commission comprises 25 member countries, including India, with each country represented by its delegates.
Organizational Structure:
- The commission’s structure involves the participation of representatives from all member countries. A Chairperson, elected from among the members, serves for a two-year term.
- The Director-General of the FAO appoints and supports the secretariat responsible for coordinating, organizing, and overseeing the commission’s work.
Meetings:
- The commission convenes at least once every two years, providing an opportunity for all member countries to participate.
Objectives:
- The primary objectives of the commission include coordinating and supporting plant protection activities among its member countries in the Asia-Pacific region.
- It focuses on developing regional standards for phytosanitary measures (RSPMs) and other relevant initiatives to safeguard plant health and promote sustainable agricultural practices
