India Revamps Agrobiodiversity Committee to Boost Agricultural Conservation
The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) is taking significant steps to enhance the conservation and sustainable use of agricultural biodiversity by reconstituting its Expert Committee on Agrobiodiversity. This Committee, operating under Section 13(1) of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, will function for the next year to provide specialized advice on critical matters concerning agricultural genetic resources.
At the helm of the newly formed Committee is Padma Shri Dr. P. L. Gautam, a distinguished agricultural scientist and former Chairperson of both the NBA and the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPVFRA). Recently awarded the Padma Shri for his substantial contributions to agricultural science, Dr. Gautam’s expertise will be instrumental in guiding the Committee. The Chairperson of PPVFRA will serve as Co-Chair alongside him.
Established in 2005, the Expert Committee on Agrobiodiversity has been pivotal in addressing emerging challenges related to agricultural biodiversity, drawing from a wealth of knowledge provided by eminent scientists and experts. It includes representatives from significant agricultural research and policy institutions across India.
This Committee has notably contributed to the implementation of the Biological Diversity Act by offering expert guidance on various issues. These range from facilitating compliance with the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) to addressing access and benefit-sharing (ABS) connected with seed exports and farm animal embryos. Furthermore, it has clarified aspects of conventional plant breeding practices and has streamlined the approval process for collaborative research projects involving biological resources.
Comprising a diverse team of leading experts from organizations such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, and Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, the reconstituted Committee is well-equipped to tackle pressing agricultural biodiversity concerns. Its mandate includes advising the NBA on how to weave biodiversity considerations throughout the agricultural sector and foster sustainable practices.
To aid India’s commitment to international agreements concerning agricultural biodiversity such as the ITPGRFA, the Committee will also focus on reviewing guidelines for international collaborative research involving biological resources. In doing so, it aims to promote conservation and sustainable use of critical native crop varieties and livestock breeds.
This reconstitution mirrors the Government of India’s dedication to preserving agricultural biodiversity while protecting genetic resources and related traditional knowledge. Furthermore, the Committee’s work will align with India’s updated National Biodiversity Action Plan Targets 4 and 13, directly contributing to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 (Zero Hunger), 13 (Climate Action), and 15 (Life on Land) through effective management and sustainable usage of India’s agricultural genetic diversity.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
