National Campaign for Updating and Verifying the People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR)

May 24, 2023

The National Campaign for Updating and Verifying the People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) was recently launched in Goa, India. This collaborative effort involves various government entities, including the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, the Goa State Biodiversity Board, the National Biodiversity Authority, and the Government of Goa. The campaign aims to document and protect the country’s diverse biological resources.

Documenting and Preserving India’s Biological Resources

The primary objective of the National Campaign for Updating and Verifying the PBR is to create a comprehensive record of India’s biodiversity. By documenting various aspects of biological diversity, including habitat conservation, land races, folk varieties, cultivars, domesticated animals, microorganisms, and accumulated knowledge, the campaign seeks to preserve the country’s rich and varied natural heritage. This initiative is crucial for understanding, protecting, and promoting sustainable use of India’s biological resources.

The Significance of Biodiversity Preservation

Preserving biodiversity is essential for upholding harmony in nature. By maintaining a delicate balance between ecological systems and human activities, we can ensure the sustainability and well-being of both the environment and society. The National Campaign for Updating and Verifying the PBR serves as a means to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation and to encourage responsible environmental stewardship.

The People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR)

A central component of the campaign is the People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR). Biodiversity Management Committees (BMC) formed by local governments across India collaborate with communities to prepare these registers. The PBR serves as a comprehensive repository of information on biodiversity, including detailed records of different species, their habitats, and traditional knowledge associated with biological resources. These registers play a vital role in supporting conservation efforts, sustainable use of resources, and promoting community engagement in biodiversity conservation.

The Legal Framework: Biological Diversity Act of 2002

The formation of Biodiversity Management Committees and the preparation of People’s Biodiversity Registers are mandated by the Biological Diversity Act of 2002. This legislation establishes the legal framework for biodiversity conservation in India. It recognizes the importance of involving local communities in conservation efforts and promotes their active participation through BMCs. The act ensures that biodiversity preservation remains a priority at both the national and local levels.

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