India’s Biodiversity Act

India’s Biodiversity Act, enacted in 2002, aims to protect the country’s rich biological resources and traditional knowledge. It regulates access to biological resources and associated knowledge, ensuring fair and equitable sharing of benefits with local communities and stakeholders. The Act establishes a National Biodiversity Authority to oversee these processes, promote conservation, and prevent biopiracy—unauthorized use of biological resources. It also encourages sustainable use and conservation of endangered species and ecosystems, balancing development with ecological preservation, and fostering respect for India's biological heritage.