Biological Diversity Act , 2002

Biological Diversity Act , 2002

Part of: Prelims and GS-III -Environment

Context The Biological Diversity Amendment Bill 2021, introduced in the Lok Sabha, exempts Ayush practitioners from the ambit of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. 

• It also facilitates access to biological resources and traditional knowledge by the Indian traditional medicine sector. 
• Legal experts have expressed concerns that easing the norms for the sector could be detrimental to ecology and go against the principle of sharing commercial benefits with indigenous communities.

What is the Biological Diversity Amendment Bill 2021?

• The Biological Diversity Act, 2002 was enacted for the conservation of biological diversity and fair, equitable sharing of the monetary benefits from the commercial use of biological resources and traditional knowledge. 
• Now, according to the Bill, it seeks to reduce the pressure on wild medicinal plants by encouraging their cultivation 
• It exempts Ayush practitioners from intimating biodiversity boards for accessing biological resources or knowledge
• It facilitates fast-tracking of research, simplify the patent application process, decriminalises certain offences;
• It brings more foreign investments in biological resources, research, patent and commercial utilisation, without compromising the national interest.