India Leads Globally in Nagoya Protocol Compliance Certificates

India has emerged as the global leader in issuing Internationally Recognised Certificates of Compliance (IRCCs) under the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-sharing (ABS). With 3,561 certificates issued out of a global total of 6,311, India accounts for over 56 per cent of all IRCCs, demonstrating its strong commitment to biodiversity governance and equitable resource sharing.

India’s Dominance in IRCC Issuance

According to data from the ABS Clearing-House, a global platform promoting transparency in biodiversity use, India stands far ahead of other nations. Among 142 registered countries, only 34 have issued IRCCs so far. India is followed by France, Spain, Argentina, Panama, and Kenya, highlighting a significant gap in implementation levels.

Understanding IRCCs and Nagoya Protocol

Under the Nagoya Protocol, countries granting access to genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge must issue IRCCs. These certificates confirm that Prior Informed Consent has been obtained and Mutually Agreed Terms have been established between users and providers. They serve as official records to ensure transparency and accountability in the utilisation of biological resources.

Role in Biodiversity Governance

IRCCs play a crucial role in tracking the use of genetic resources from research stages to commercial applications. They ensure that benefits arising from such use are shared fairly with the provider country. This mechanism supports conservation efforts and promotes sustainable use of biodiversity at a global level.

Important Facts for Exams

• Nagoya Protocol is a supplementary agreement to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
• ABS stands for Access and Benefit-sharing related to genetic resources.
• Biological Diversity Act, 2002 governs biodiversity conservation in India.
• ABS Clearing-House is an international platform for sharing information on genetic resource use.

Institutional Framework and Global Significance

India’s success is attributed to its robust institutional framework under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The National Biodiversity Authority at the central level, along with State Biodiversity Boards and local Biodiversity Management Committees, ensures efficient implementation. This achievement reinforces India’s proactive role in global environmental agreements and strengthens its position as a leader in sustainable and equitable biodiversity management.