Correct Option (A):
India is a member country of the International Grains Council (IGC). The IGC is an intergovernmental organization established in 1949 under the International Wheat Agreement, which subsequently evolved through the Grains Trade Convention, 1995. India actively participates in IGC activities, contributing to discussions on global grain trade, policy matters, and market transparency. Therefore, Statement 1 is correct.
Incorrect Options:
Membership in the International Grains Council (IGC) is not a mandatory requirement for countries to engage in international trade of grains such as rice and wheat. The IGC's role is primarily to enhance market transparency, facilitate dialogue among exporting and importing countries, and publish regular reports on grain market developments. It does not regulate or control global grain trade, nor does it impose restrictions or eligibility criteria for trade participation. Countries conduct grain trade under the framework of World Trade Organization (WTO) rules and various bilateral or multilateral trade agreements, irrespective of their IGC membership status. Therefore, Statement 2 is incorrect.