Boosting Conservation: ABS Funds Propel Red Sanders Protection

The National Biodiversity Authority has disbursed Rs 6.2 crore under the Access and Benefit Sharing mechanism to aid Red Sanders conservation and support farmers and forest communities. The funds have been allocated across five states, enhancing protection and promoting sustainable livelihoods related to this endangered species.

The National Biodiversity Authority announced on Thursday the release of Rs 6.2 crore under the Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) scheme to finance initiatives for conserving the endangered Red Sanders species. These funds aim to bolster farmer livelihoods and support forest-based communities across five Indian states.

State forest departments, biodiversity boards, and Red Sanders cultivators are the main beneficiaries of this latest distribution. The funds will facilitate key conservation activities such as enhanced patrolling, research-driven practices, and community livelihood expansion, reinforcing the collaboration among various stakeholders.

With these latest allocations, the cumulative ABS disbursements by the NBA have surpassed Rs 127 crore, exemplifying India's commitment to sustainable biodiversity practices. This highlights how the Biological Diversity Act transforms conservation efforts into viable livelihood prospects, showcasing India's leadership in sustainable ecological management.