The Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill, 2022, slated for presentation in the Parliament during the monsoon session, has sparked debates and discussions among stakeholders. The bill aims to address several critical objectives, including easing regulations on wild medicinal plants, promoting the Indian system of medicine, encouraging collaborative research and investments, and simplifying permissions from the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) for practitioners and companies dealing with medicinal products. However, some provisions of the bill have garnered controversy, raising concerns about its impact on biodiversity conservation
Easing Regulations on Wild Medicinal Plants
The primary objective of the amendment bill is to ease regulations surrounding the use and trade of wild medicinal plants. Medicinal plants have been an essential part of traditional healthcare systems in India for centuries. By reducing stringent restrictions, the bill aims to promote the sustainable utilization of these plants, benefitting both traditional healers and modern medicine practitioners.
Promoting the Indian System of Medicine
Another key goal of the amendment bill is to promote the Indian system of medicine, such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha. These traditional practices have a rich history and have contributed significantly to healthcare in the country. By fostering their growth and development, the bill seeks to bring these time-tested therapies to the forefront of modern healthcare.
Encouraging Collaborative Research and Investments
The amendment bill aims to create a conducive environment for collaborative research and investments in the field of biodiversity and traditional medicine. By attracting investments from both domestic and foreign entities, the bill envisions the development of new products and treatments derived from natural resources, which can lead to significant advancements in healthcare and related industries.
Reducing the Burden of Obtaining Permissions
One of the key challenges faced by practitioners and companies involved in the production of medicinal products is the cumbersome process of obtaining permissions from the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA). The amendment bill seeks to streamline this process, reducing the administrative burden on stakeholders while ensuring the sustainable use of biodiversity resources.
Controversial Provisions of the Biological Diversity (Amendment) Bill, 2022
Decriminalizing Violations of Biodiversity Laws
One of the most contentious provisions of the bill is the proposal to de-criminalize violations of biodiversity laws. Critics argue that this move may weaken the enforcement of regulations and lead to unchecked exploitation of natural resources, potentially jeopardizing the delicate balance of ecosystems.
Differential Treatment for Domestic and Foreign Companies
The bill has faced criticism for its differential treatment of domestic and foreign companies. While domestic companies are granted permission to use biodiversity resources without seeking approval from biodiversity boards, foreign-controlled companies are required to obtain such permission. This provision has raised concerns about potential preferential treatment and its impact on fair competition.
The Concept of Codified Traditional Knowledge
The inclusion of the term “codified traditional knowledge” in the bill has sparked debates about its implications. The provision exempts users, including practitioners of Indian systems of medicine, from obtaining approvals for accessing or sharing benefits related to traditional knowledge. While proponents argue that it protects traditional healers, skeptics worry that it may inadvertently facilitate misappropriation and commercialization of indigenous knowledge.
Last Modified: February 22, 2024