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.