India reaffirmed its commitment to biodiversity conservation by submitting the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) to the United Nations. This plan articulates 23 national targets aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF), aiming to halt biodiversity loss by 2030. The KM-GBF, adopted in 2022, is a global treaty involving 196 countries, emphasising the need for sustainable practices and ecosystem restoration.
About Biodiversity
Biodiversity encompasses the variety of life on Earth, including the diversity of species, ecosystems, and genetic variations. India is a biodiversity hotspot, hosting approximately 8% of the world’s known species. This includes a staggering array of flora and fauna—3,532 fish species, 1,346 bird species, and 436 mammal species, to name a few. Such rich biodiversity is crucial for ecosystem stability, resilience, and the provision of essential services to humans.
Key Themes of the NBSAP
The NBSAP is structured around three key themes – reducing threats to biodiversity, meeting human needs through sustainable use, and implementing effective tools for biodiversity management. Notably, eight of the 23 targets focus on mitigating threats such as land use changes, pollution, and climate change. The plan aims to restore 30% of degraded ecosystems, thereby enhancing ecological integrity and connectivity.
Management of Invasive Species
Invasive alien species pose an important threat to native biodiversity. The NBSAP outlines measures to manage these species by eliminating or controlling their impact on ecosystems. This includes developing quarantine protocols and establishing a national database to monitor and control the introduction of invasive species. Interestingly, many invasive species are introduced through trade in exotic wildlife and abandonment of pets, denoting the need for public awareness and stricter regulations.
Financial Implications
To achieve the ambitious targets set forth in the NBSAP, India requires substantial financial investment. The estimated annual expenditure to meet these targets from 2024 to 2030 is projected at Rs 81,664.88 crore, an important increase from previous spending levels. The government has initiated reviews of biodiversity-related expenditures to better allocate resources and ensure effective implementation of conservation strategies.
Challenges Ahead
While the NBSAP provides a comprehensive framework for biodiversity conservation, challenges such as water scarcity, food insecurity, and pollution remain pressing issues. The plan aims to address these challenges through integrated approaches that consider the interdependence of ecosystems and human communities. Additionally, increasing human-wildlife interactions necessitate strategies that balance conservation efforts with local livelihood needs.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework in the context of India’s biodiversity strategy.
- Examine the impact of invasive alien species on India’s ecosystems and the measures proposed in the NBSAP to manage them.
- Analyse the financial implications of implementing the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan in India.
- Evaluate the role of biodiversity in sustaining ecosystem services and its relevance to human well-being.
- Identify the challenges faced by India in achieving its biodiversity targets and suggest potential solutions.
