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India Leads World in Biodiversity Access Certificates, Issues 56% of Global Total

India has emerged as the global leader in issuing Internationally Recognised Certificates of Compliance under the Nagoya Protocol, accounting for over 56% of all such certificates issued worldwide. The country has issued 3,561 certificates, far ahead of other nations like France, Spain, and Argentina. These certificates are crucial for tracking the use of genetic resources and ensuring fair benefit-sharing with provider countries. India's achievement highlights its effective institutional framework and proactive role in global biodiversity governance.

Key Points: India Issues Over Half of World's Biodiversity Access Certificates

  • Global leader in Nagoya Protocol certificates
  • Issued 3,561 of 6,311 global IRCCs
  • Ensures fair benefit-sharing for genetic resources
  • Strong institutional framework enables compliance
2 min read

India leads in issuing biodiversity access certificates: Environment Ministry

India has issued 3,561 biodiversity compliance certificates, leading global implementation of the Nagoya Protocol for fair benefit-sharing from genetic resources.

"India's leading position reflects the effective implementation of its ABS framework under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 - Environment Ministry"

New Delhi, March 31

India has emerged as the global leader in issuing Internationally Recognised Certificates of Compliance under the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-Sharing, accounting for more than 56 per cent of all certificates issued worldwide, an Environment Ministry official said on Tuesday.

According to the latest data on the ABS Clearing-House, India has issued 3,561 IRCCs out of a global total of 6,311, placing it far ahead of all other countries in implementing the protocol, the official said in a statement.

Out of 142 countries registered on the ABS Clearing-House, a global platform that promotes transparency and accountability, only 34 have issued IRCCs so far.

India is followed by France with 964 certificates, Spain (320), Argentina (257), Panama (156) and Kenya (144).

This reaffirms India's strong commitment to fair and transparent use of biological resources and or associated knowledge, the official added.

Under the 2010 Nagoya Protocol, countries granting commercial access to genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge are required to issue IRCCs.

These certificates serve as official evidence that Prior Informed Consent has been obtained and that Mutually Agreed Terms have been established between users and providers of resources.

The details are then uploaded to the ABS Clearing-House.

"IRCCs play a crucial role in tracking how genetic resources are used, from research and innovation to eventual commercial applications, ensuring that benefits are shared fairly with the provider country," the statement said.

"India's leading position reflects the effective implementation of its ABS framework under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, implemented through the National Biodiversity Authority at the central level, State Biodiversity Boards/Union territory Biodiversity Councils at the state level and Biodiversity Management Committees at the local level," it added.

Streamlined procedures and strong institutional mechanisms have enabled efficient processing of applications and ensured compliance with international obligations.

This achievement highlights India's proactive role in global biodiversity governance and its continued efforts to promote the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of biological resources, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said.

"It also aligns with international goals on biodiversity conservation and sustainable use, strengthening India's position as a key player in implementing global environmental agreements," the statement said.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone working in conservation, this is very encouraging. The Nagoya Protocol is crucial for preventing biopiracy. India leading with over 56% of certificates is a strong signal to the world. Hope the benefits actually reach the local communities and tribes who are the real custodians of this knowledge.
V
Vikram M
Great news, but implementation at the ground level is key. We have amazing laws on paper. The challenge is ensuring companies, both Indian and foreign, actually comply and share benefits fairly with villages. The BMCs need more resources and training.
P
Priya S
Wow! Leading the world in something positive for a change. 3,561 certificates is no small number. This should boost research and innovation within the country too, as the process is now streamlined. Jai Hind! 🙏
R
Rohit P
Respectfully, while the numbers look good, I hope this isn't just about issuing certificates. The real test is whether this translates to tangible benefits for biodiversity conservation and the livelihoods of people dependent on it. The article mentions "streamlined procedures" – hope it doesn't mean easier for corporations to access resources.
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Kavya N
This is so important for a country like India with so much traditional wisdom in Ayurveda and other systems. Protecting our genetic resources from being exploited without permission or benefit-sharing is a big win. Kudos to the National Biodiversity Authority and all the state boards!

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