Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified them in accordance with the Biological Diversity Act of 2002.
- New Rules will replace Biological Diversity Rules, 2004.
- Also these rules will ensure the implementation of the Biological Diversity (Amendment) Act, 2023.
- Amendment of 2023 was done to facilitate fast-tracking of processes for research, encouraging Indian system of medicine etc.
- Rules outline various provisions related with National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), Penalties, etc.
Key Highlights of the Rules
- National Biodiversity Authority (NBA):
- Chairperson shall be appointed by the Central Government, will hold office for a term of three years’ and shall be eligible for re-appointment.
- General Functions of the NBA
- Administering the National Biodiversity Fund (NBF), established under the Act of 2002.
- Granting approvals for biodiversity-related agreements.
- Providing technical guidance and support to state bodies.
- Developing and maintaining databases related to biological resources and traditional knowledge.
- Intellectual Property Rights: Approval of Authority will be required before the actual grant of the IPR.
- Penalties for Contraventions: Penalties for violations range from ₹1 lakh to ₹50 lakh, with additional fines for repeated violations.
- All penalties collected go to the NBF or relevant state funds, supporting biodiversity initiatives.
About Biological Diversity Act 2002
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