Approach:

Introduction: Give a brief overview of the Biological Diversity Act 2002.

Body: Discuss in detail the objectives and contribution of the act in the conservation of biodiversity in India.

Conclusion: Summarise the contribution and importance of the act in brief.

Answer:

The Biological Diversity Act of 2002 in India serves as a pivotal legal framework aimed at safeguarding the nation's rich biodiversity and associated traditional knowledge. With its multifaceted objectives, the Act plays a crucial role in conserving diverse ecosystems, regulating access to genetic resources, and ensuring equitable benefit-sharing.

The main objectives of the Biological Diversity Act 2002 are:

1. Conservation of biodiversity: To conserve the biological diversity of the country and ensure its sustainable use for the benefit of present and future generations.

1. Sustainable use of biological resources: To regulate access to biological resources and associated traditional knowledge to ensure their sustainable use while promoting equitable sharing of benefits.

1. Fair and equitable sharing of benefits: To ensure that the benefits arising from the use of biological resources and associated knowledge are shared fairly and equitably with local communities and indigenous people.

1. Protection of traditional knowledge: To protect the knowledge, innovations, and practices of local communities and indigenous people related to biodiversity.

1. Regulation of access to genetic resources: To regulate the access to genetic resources and ensure that such access is obtained with proper authorization and in accordance with the principles of Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS).

The Act promotes conservation through measures such as:

1. Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS): The Act allows for the recognition and protection of Biodiversity Heritage Sites, which are areas of ecological, biodiversity, cultural, and historical significance. For instance, the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve in Kerala has been designated as a Biodiversity Heritage Site. This recognition helps in preserving unique ecosystems and promoting sustainable use of resources in these areas.

1. Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Mechanism: The Act's ABS provisions contribute to equitable benefit sharing with local communities. An example is the use of neem and turmeric in pharmaceuticals. With the Act in place, benefits derived from the commercial use of these resources must be shared with the communities that have conserved and nurtured these resources and knowledge.

1. Traditional Knowledge Protection: The Act safeguards traditional knowledge associated with biodiversity. For instance, the traditional knowledge of tribal communities in Arunachal Pradesh related to medicinal plants has been protected under the Act. This recognition prevents exploitation while acknowledging the contributions of indigenous communities.

1. People's Biodiversity Registers (PBRs): The Act encourages the creation of PBRs, which document local biodiversity and traditional knowledge. Many states, such as Kerala and Karnataka, have established PBRs. These registers provide valuable information for conservation planning and ensure that local communities have a say in biodiversity management.

1. Regulation of Invasive Species: The Act empowers authorities to regulate and manage invasive alien species that pose a threat to native biodiversity. For example, water hyacinth, an invasive plant species in many water bodies, can be controlled through the Act's provisions.

1. Bioprospecting and Research Regulation: The Act regulates bioprospecting activities, ensuring that researchers obtain proper authorization before accessing genetic resources. This prevents unauthorized exploitation and encourages responsible research.

1. Awareness and Education: The Act mandates the promotion of awareness and education about biodiversity conservation. Numerous workshops, seminars, and campaigns have been conducted to educate people about the importance of conserving biodiversity and complying with the Act's provisions.

This Act contributes to the conservation of biodiversity in India by providing a comprehensive legal framework to address various aspects of biodiversity conservation and management. It establishes the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) and State Biodiversity Boards to oversee the implementation of the Act at the national and state levels.