New Delhi: India’s ABS framework has disbursed around Rs 145 crore to local communities, farmers and biodiversity institutions, highlighting the success of the country’s benefit-sharing mechanism under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
The National Biodiversity Authority has mobilised more than Rs 266 crore through the Access and Benefit Sharing mechanism since 2008. During 2025-26 alone, it realised Rs 21.26 crore, reflecting growing compliance and participation from industry stakeholders.
Under the law, organisations that utilise biological resources share benefits with Biodiversity Management Committees, farmers, traditional knowledge holders and other custodians of biodiversity. Authorities said the mechanism promotes conservation while improving livelihoods.
The benefits have reached more than 10,500 Biodiversity Management Committees across 23 states and four Union Territories. In addition, over 230 farmers, six State Forest Departments and several institutions have received support.
Officials said the mechanism generated benefits from resources such as Red Sanders, medicinal plants, seeds, livestock genetic resources, crude herbs and microorganisms. These contributions have strengthened conservation and sustainable use efforts.
ABS framework supports conservation and livelihoods
Red Sanders accounted for the largest share of collections, contributing Rs 120 crore or 45 percent of total realisations. Meanwhile, the seed sector contributed Rs 84.61 crore, while pharmaceuticals and AYUSH companies added Rs 36.61 crore.
The National Biodiversity Authority transfers 85 to 90 percent of collected funds to State Biodiversity Boards. Subsequently, the boards distribute the amounts to eligible beneficiaries.
Local communities have used the funds for habitat restoration, biodiversity conservation and documentation of traditional knowledge. Furthermore, the support has helped establish medicinal plant parks, community gene banks and sustainable livelihood programmes.
Authorities said the initiative also funds capacity-building activities and updates People’s Biodiversity Registers. As a result, grassroots conservation efforts have gained stronger institutional support.
The framework contributes to India’s commitments under the Nagoya Protocol and the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2024-2030. It also supports global biodiversity goals and several Sustainable Development Goals.
Officials stated that the programme demonstrates how biodiversity conservation can generate direct economic benefits for communities while encouraging sustainable resource management.
