National Biodiversity Authority Realises ₹2.40 Crore in 45 Days Under ABS Framework
Under the ABS mechanism established through the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, entities using biological resources for research or commercial purposes are required to share benefits with stakeholders.
Seed sector drives collections; cumulative realisation crosses ₹266 crore
New Delhi, February 13: The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has realised ₹2.40 crore under the Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) framework in the last 45 days, reflecting increased compliance and stronger participation from the agri-input and biotechnology sectors.
The amount was received from 10 applications for research and commercial utilisation of biological resources, primarily from entities in the seed, animal feed and cosmetics sectors.
A substantial ₹2.30 crore out of the total realisation came from Pioneer Overseas Corporation for the commercial use of mustard and rice hybrids. The remaining contributions were received from East West Seeds India Pvt Ltd, Advanta Enterprises Ltd, Tokita Seed India Pvt Ltd, Avalo Inc, and Sea6 Energy Pvt Ltd.
The biological resources utilised include varieties and hybrids of rice, onion, bitter gourd, mustard, cotton, bottle gourd, brinjal, chilli, cucumber, okra, ridge gourd, tomato and seaweed. These resources were used in developing improved and hybrid seed varieties and other agro-based products, contributing to agricultural productivity and value creation.
Under the ABS mechanism established through the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, entities accessing biological resources for research or commercial purposes are required to share benefits with stakeholders. The realised funds are distributed among concerned research institutes, local communities, farmers and biodiversity management committees, particularly those who provided parental seed lines.
The mechanism supports livelihood enhancement while encouraging conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity at the grassroots level.
In the current financial year 2025–26, the NBA has realised ₹3.42 crore from the seed sector alone. With the latest realisation, the cumulative ABS amount collected by the authority has crossed ₹266 crore (approximately $29 million). Of this, ₹83 crore has come from the seed sector, making it the second-largest contributor after Red Sanders.
The NBA continues to implement India’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-Sharing. The ABS framework also contributes to the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly Target 13, which emphasises legislative measures for equitable benefit-sharing.
In recent years, the authority has introduced simplified and transparent procedures to facilitate compliance and promote ease of doing business, while ensuring that the interests of grassroots communities remain safeguarded.
