India has emerged as the global leader in issuing Internationally Recognised Certificates of Compliance under the Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-sharing. The country has issued 3,561 certificates out of a global total of 6,311, accounting for more than 56 per cent of all certificates worldwide. This places India well ahead of other countries in implementing the protocol and strengthening biodiversity governance.
What the Certificates Mean
Internationally Recognised Certificates of Compliance are issued when access to genetic resources or associated traditional knowledge is granted under the Nagoya Protocol. They act as official proof that Prior Informed Consent has been obtained and Mutually Agreed Terms have been established between the provider and the user. The details are uploaded to the ABS Clearing-House, which promotes transparency and accountability.
Global Position of India
Out of 142 countries registered on the ABS Clearing-House, only 34 have issued such certificates so far. India is followed by France with 964 certificates, Spain with 320, Argentina with 257, Panama with 156 and Kenya with 144. India’s large share reflects its active role in the global system for fair and equitable benefit-sharing.
Domestic Framework for ABS
India’s performance is linked to its legal and institutional framework under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The National Biodiversity Authority functions at the central level. State Biodiversity Boards and Union territory Biodiversity Councils work at the state level. Biodiversity Management Committees operate at the local level. These institutions help process applications, monitor compliance and support implementation of access and benefit-sharing rules.
Significance for Biodiversity Governance
The achievement marks India’s commitment to the fair use of biological resources and associated knowledge. It also supports conservation, sustainable use and benefit-sharing objectives under international biodiversity agreements. India’s leading position strengthens its profile as an important contributor to global environmental governance.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026