India Commits to 30% Protected Areas in Updated Biodiversity Plan

India has unveiled its updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) during the 16th UN Biodiversity Conference in Cali, Colombia, committing to protect at least 30% of its terrestrial, inland water, and coastal marine areas by 2030. This ambitious target aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF), adopted at the previous conference in 2022, which aims for global protection of 30% of land and ocean areas while restoring degraded ecosystems crucial for providing clean water and air.

The updated NBSAP outlines 23 national targets mirroring the 23 global goals, emphasizing India’s commitment to conserving its rich biodiversity, which represents 7-8% of the world’s species within only 2.4% of global land area.

Financial Commitment and Expenditure

India’s commitment to biodiversity is reflected in its financial investment, with approximately ₹32,200 crore spent on biodiversity protection and restoration between 2017-2018 and 2021-2022. The projected annual expenditure for biodiversity conservation through 2029-2030 is estimated at ₹81,664.88 crore. This financial backing underscores the government’s seriousness in addressing the threats to biodiversity, aiming to integrate conservation efforts into broader developmental agendas.

Three Key Themes of NBSAP

Reducing Threats to Biodiversity: This theme encompasses eight targets addressing key threats like land use changes, pollution, climate change, and invasive species. It also emphasizes restoring ecosystems and managing species diversity.

Meeting People’s Needs through Sustainable Use: With five targets focused on sustainable management of agriculture, fisheries, and forests, this theme highlights the importance of biodiversity for rural communities, including farmers, herders, and tribal populations. It also aims to ensure equitable sharing of biodiversity benefits.

Tools and Solutions for Implementation: This theme outlines ten targets aimed at integrating biodiversity into national development goals, promoting sustainable production, and enhancing public engagement in conservation efforts. It stresses the role of communities in protecting biodiversity while ensuring sustainable use.

Focus on Restoration and Community Involvement

The NBSAP acknowledges widespread ecosystem degradation due to agricultural expansion, industrialization, and urbanization, making it a priority to restore at least 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030. Target 16 addresses issues of overconsumption and waste generation, linking them to biodiversity loss. In response, India has initiated Mission Life to promote environmentally friendly lifestyles.

Background and Future Directions

India, a signatory to the Convention on Biological Diversity since 1994, is required to create and periodically update its NBSAP as a strategic framework for biodiversity conservation. The commitment to report progress every four years highlights the need for ongoing accountability and adaptation in response to both past challenges and future goals. By committing to these ambitious targets, India aims not only to protect its own biodiversity but also to contribute to global conservation efforts.

Here’s a table summarizing the key points from the article