India Invests ₹6.2 Crore for Red Sanders Conservation Efforts
The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has announced a significant investment of ₹6.2 crore, aimed at bolstering conservation efforts for the endangered Red Sanders (_Pterocarpus santalinus_). This funding, released on December 11, 2025, is part of the Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) mechanism established under the Biological Diversity Act of 2002. The initiative not only supports the preservation of this valuable species but also enhances the livelihoods of farmers and forest-dwelling communities across five Indian states.
Funding Allocation Across States
The disbursed ABS funds are directed to various State Forest Departments, State Biodiversity Boards, and individual Red Sanders growers who play crucial roles in the ongoing protection of this indigenous species. The latest allocation will assist in the sustainable conservation and responsible utilization of Red Sanders. Specifically, farmers in Telangana will receive ₹17.8 lakh, while those in Andhra Pradesh are set to benefit from ₹1.1 crore. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department will acquire ₹2.98 crore, the Karnataka Forest Department will get ₹1.05 crore, and the Maharashtra Forest Department will receive ₹69.2 lakh. Furthermore, the Telangana Forest Department will gain ₹5.8 lakh, with an additional ₹16.0 lakh being distributed among the state biodiversity boards.
Boosting Conservation Efforts
This latest funding round has now raised the total ABS funds allocated for Red Sanders conservation to over ₹101 crore since the mechanism’s inception. To date, 216 farmers have benefited under this program, including 198 from Andhra Pradesh and 18 from Tamil Nadu. Similarly, numerous state agencies have also received support, encompassing the Forest Departments and State Biodiversity Boards of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
Utilization of Funds
The funds will be instrumental in enhancing frontline protection measures, improving patrolling and monitoring infrastructure, implementing research-driven silvicultural practices, expanding community-based livelihood programs, and elevating the socio-economic resilience of Red Sanders growers.
India’s Commitment to Biodiversity
With this latest infusion of funds, the overall ABS disbursements by the NBA have surpassed ₹127 crore. This move reinforces India’s position as a global leader in equitable benefit-sharing related to biological resources. The initiative aligns with the goals set in Target-13 and the financial mobilization objectives for biodiversity conservation under Target-19 of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2024-2030, as well as the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework of the Convention on Biological Diversity.
This funding disbursement highlights the transformative potential of the ABS provisions outlined in the Biological Diversity Act, turning conservation efforts into viable livelihood options. Such initiatives exemplify India’s leadership in applying ABS principles effectively, promoting ecological security, and fostering sustainable livelihoods.
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