What is the role of the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)?

The National Biodiversity Authority is the central regulatory body established under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 to oversee the conservation and sustainable use of biological resources in India. Its primary role is to regulate access to biological resources and associated traditional knowledge, especially by foreign individuals, companies, and organizations. The NBA grants approvals for research, commercial use, and intellectual property rights related to biological materials. It also ensures fair and equitable sharing of benefits with local communities. Additionally, the authority advises the central government on biodiversity conservation policies, supports international cooperation, and helps implement the objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity in India.