Union Minister for Rural Development reviews progress of WDC-PMKSY; Stresses on accelerating watershed development towards 'Drought-Free India'

 

Union Minister for Rural Development reviews progress of WDC-PMKSY; Stresses on accelerating watershed development towards 'Drought-Free India'

Posted On: 01 SEP 2026 5:23PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister for Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan today reviewed the progress of Watershed Development Component (WDC-PMKSY)  of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana and called upon the States to ensure speedy implementation of projects and clear and measurable outcomes at the grassroot level. He mentioned watershed development  as an important tool towards realizing the  goal of "Drought-Free India for Developed India".

 

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, "Watershed development is not just a program to build water bodies; its real objective is to bring water to the field, increase the productivity of the land, and improve the income and livelihood of the farmer. Our goal is that every drop of water should be used optimally and its benefits should reach the farmer.”

 

Under the WDC-PMKSY 2.0  scheme, 1,220 projects covering an area of 52.93 lakh hectares have been sanctioned so far. The total sanctioned cost of these projects is ₹12,404 crore, with ₹8,134 crore being the central share. Out of the central share, ₹6,955.75 (85%) crore has been released.

 

Emphasizing on the farmer-centric outcomes in particular, Union Minister of Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said, "The biggest proof of the success of the watershed project is that as a result of watershed interventions, in an area of about  1.40  lakh hectares where earlier one crop was barely grown, farmers are taking two crops and in many places three crops." Horticulture, vegetable production and high-value crops have expanded which has brought prosperity in the lives of farmers. This transformation is the real success of our schemes. ”

 

Under the programme, 1.24 lakh water harvesting structures have been constructed and rejuvenated. These include check dams, nullahs, percolation tanks, village/farm ponds, bunds, trenches, reservoirs and other rainwater harvesting and ground water recharge structures. These structures have significantly helped in local harvesting, harvesting and recharge of ground water and increasing the availability of water for agriculture.

 

These efforts have resulted in protective irrigation in an additional area of 3.08 lakh hectares, helping farmers in rainfed areas to save crops in the event of deficient rainfall or drought. So far, 28.50 lakh farmers have been benefitted from the programme. In addition, afforestation, horticulture and plantation have been carried out in an area of 1.45  lakh hectares and  2.85 crore man-days employment has been generated.

 

Shri Chouhan urged the States to work in a transparent, tech-enabled, performance-based and people-centric manner and complete the projects in a time-bound manner. He said that watershed projects should be evaluated not only on the basis of expenditure  but also on the basis of land reclamation, water availability, irrigation, crop intensity, land productivity and actual improvement in farmers' livelihood.

 

Shri Chouhan said, "We have made watershed development a mass movement through 'Watershed Yatra' and 'Watershed Festival'. Now our goal is to take watershed development forward not just as a scheme, but as a national campaign for water and land security, agricultural security and rural prosperity. our resolution must  be to ensure faster implementation, better results and more impact.”

 

During the review meeting, the States and implementing agencies wer called to work in a coordinatedmanner to ensure that the benefits of watershed development reach the overall farmers and rural households.

Shri Bhupender Yadav calls on 4th Indo-German Environment Forum to Strengthen Knowledge, Scale Solutions and Build Stronger Institutional Capacity in Environmental Conservation

Shri Bhupender Yadav calls on 4th Indo-German Environment Forum to Strengthen Knowledge, Scale Solutions and Build Stronger Institutional Capacity in Environmental Conservation

India a Role Model in Renewable Energy Expansion; Germany keen to deepen Strategic Partnership: German Environment Minister H.E. Carsten Schneider

India, Germany sign Joint Declaration of Intent on Conservation and Wise Use of Wetlands of International Importance

Posted On: 01 SEP 2026 2:56PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, today said that environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and resource depletion require integrated and collaborative solutions. Addressing the opening session of the 4th Indo-German Environment Forum (IGEF), Shri Yadav said that the theme - Together For More Resilience - reflects the need for stronger cooperation to build climate-resilient, resource-efficient and sustainable development pathways. The Minister co-chaired the event along with German Minister for Environment, Climate Protection, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, H.E. Carsten Schneider, in New Delhi today.

The IGEF is the highest-level bilateral forum between India and Germany on environmental policy and has been held since 2008. It was jointly organised by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India, and the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Protection, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMUKN), Germany, in association with the Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business (APA) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

Addressing the Forum, Shri Yadav noted that environmental sustainability can no longer be addressed in isolation, and emphasised the need for cooperation in building a climate-resilient future. The Minister said that India’s development experience has demonstrated that environmental ambition and economic development need not be competing objectives. He said India has been consistently achieving its commitments under its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) ahead of schedule, reflecting the scale at which environmental transformation is taking place in the country.

Highlighting the economic potential of resource efficiency and circularity, the Minister said India’s circular economy has the potential to generate a market value of more than USD 2 trillion and create close to 10 million jobs by 2050. He said the establishment of the Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy Industry Coalition during India’s G20 Presidency was an important step in bringing resource efficiency and circularity into the global economic conversation.

The Minister also highlighted that the next phase of industry transition must address the complex challenge of decarbonising energy-intensive sectors such as steel, cement and chemicals. He stressed that this transition would require innovation, cleaner energy, resource efficiency, appropriate policy frameworks and new production processes. Shri Yadav called for the Indo-German Environment Forum to focus on strengthening the knowledge and evidence base for environmental decision-making, advancing practical and scalable approaches for climate, biodiversity and resource efficiency, and building stronger institutional capacities for implementation. He added that international cooperation on knowledge, technology and innovation would be crucial in advancing this transition.

Addressing the event, H.E. Carsten Schneider said India’s rapid expansion of renewable energy, with solar panels and wind turbines coming up across the country, makes it a role model for other regions of the world. He said India was truly a country of the future, marked by a strong sense of momentum and progress and an inspiring innovative spirit among its young population.

The German Minister noted that  foundations of India-Germany relations were solid, with the two countries celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations this year. He said India and Germany shared the common goal of ensuring that sustainable development goes hand in hand with economic growth. Welcoming the decision to expand cooperation on climate adaptation and wetland protection, he said the two countries would develop joint projects and share knowledge and experience.

On the sidelines of the Forum, Shri Yadav and H.E. Schneider held a bilateral meeting and reaffirmed the commitment on advancing environment sustainability and climate action. The ministers also signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) on Conservation and Wise Use of Wetlands of International Importance. Shri Yadav said that the JDI would provide a platform for strengthening scientific understanding, sharing good practices in wetland management, developing restoration approaches and enhancing community participation.

Earlier during the event, Shri Yadav addressed the Indo-German Business Forum on the sidelines of the event. He spoke about the immense potential for collaboration in the green transition, particularly in renewable energy, energy storage, green hydrogen, energy efficiency, sustainable manufacturing and associated technologies. The Indo-German partnership has a strong foundation, and both countries are working closely to strengthen economic resilience while simultaneously advancing the transition towards low-carbon, resource-efficient and climate-resilient economies, he noted.

The Forum provided a platform for bilateral exchanges among policymakers, private-sector representatives, think tanks and other key stakeholders on environmental and climate cooperation between the two countries. Representatives from ministries, businesses, expert groups and non-governmental organisations participated in the Forum. Through thematic sessions, the Forum focused on challenges, solutions and opportunities in the areas of Low-Carbon Industries; Biodiversity in Wetlands, Mountains and Forests; Resource Efficiency & Circular Economy as a Business Model; and Sustainable Finance, Green Skills & Investment Mobilization.

Ahead of the Forum, the three Joint Working Groups on Climate Change, Biodiversity and Circular Economy met this year. The respective working groups discussed the progress made and areas of mutual interest. The Forum assumes significance in the context of the strong and growing economic and industrial linkages between India and Germany and the potential for deeper cooperation in sustainable technologies and green economy.

CAQM reviews Enforcement Actions, Compliance Status and Sector-specific Inspections across NCR in 138th Meeting of its Enforcement Task Force

 

CAQM reviews Enforcement Actions, Compliance Status and Sector-specific Inspections across NCR in 138th Meeting of its Enforcement Task Force

Posted On: 01 SEP 2026 3:13PM by PIB Delhi

The 138th meeting of the Enforcement Task Force (ETF) of the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) was held on 31.08.2026 to review enforcement actions, inspections and compliance status across the National Capital Region (NCR) for the reporting period from 08.08.2026 to 23.08.2026.

During the reporting period of 16 days, a total of 121 inspections were carried out by the Flying Squads deployed by the Commission, covering key sectors including 10 inspections across Construction & Demolition (C&D) sites, 56 inspections across the Industrial Sector and 20 inspections related to Diesel Generator (DG) sets.

Based on the inspection reports received for reported violations, closure of 4 projects/ industries (C&D sites), sealing of 17 DG sets, issuance of 7 orders/ directions for compliance and imposition of Environmental Compensation (EC) in 5 cases have been proposed. 

The Enforcement Task Force also reviewed the status of compliance with the decisions taken during the 137th ETF meeting and noted that all actionable cases pertaining to the Industrial Sector, C&D Sector and DG sets have been acted upon. Further, 9 resumption orders have been issued after verification of compliance, comprising 2 Industrial Units and 7 C&D projects. State-wise, 1 resumption order has been issued in Delhi, 6 in Haryana and 2 in Uttar Pradesh.

Further, the updated cumulative enforcement status as on 31.08.2026 was reviewed. It was noted that the Flying Squads of the Commission have so far carried out inspections at 28,397 units/ projects/ entities across NCR. Based on these inspections, 1,823 Closure Directions have been issued, out of which 1,473 Resumption Orders have been issued after verification of compliance. Further, 126 cases have been transferred to the respective State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)/ Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) for final decision, while 224 entities remain under examination for issuance of resumption orders.

The Commission reiterated the need for strengthening enforcement, ensuring timely compliance verification and enhancing coordination among implementing agencies for effective implementation of the prescribed norms. The Commission also emphasized continued focus on expeditious enforcement actions, strict compliance monitoring and active inspections across priority sectors including Industrial Units, C&D activities, DG sets and road works to ensure effective mitigation of air pollution across the NCR.

⚡ 9 Electrical Mistakes You Might Be Making at Home with HSE Trainer

 ⚡ 9 Electrical Mistakes You Might Be Making at Home with HSE Trainer 

🏠 Scenario: A Small Electrical Mistake Can Become a Big Emergency

Imagine you are at home after work. You switch on the air conditioner, microwave, kettle, heater and several chargers at the same time. 🔌

Because there are not enough outlets, you connect a power strip to an extension cord and then add another power strip. Suddenly, you notice that the outlet is getting unusually hot. You smell something burning. 🔥

A few seconds later, the circuit breaker trips. ⚠️

Instead of investigating the problem, someone simply resets the breaker and continues using the appliances.

🛑 STOP — THIS IS A WARNING SIGN!

Repeated tripping can indicate an overload or electrical fault. OSHA states that after a circuit is de-energized by a protective device, it should not simply be repeatedly re-energized until it has been determined that the circuit and equipment can be safely energized. 

🔌 9 Common Electrical Mistakes

1️⃣ Too Many Devices — OVERLOAD

Plugging multiple appliances into one outlet or circuit can create excessive load and overheating.

👉 Remember: More plugs do not mean more available power.

2️⃣ High-Power Appliances 🔥

Heaters, kettles, microwaves and air conditioners can draw significant current.

👉 Use suitable outlets and ensure the circuit and equipment are properly rated.

3️⃣ Daisy-Chaining Power Strips 🚫

Connecting one power strip or extension cord to another increases the risk of overload and poor connections.

👉 Never use a chain of extension cords/power strips as a substitute for proper distribution.

4️⃣ Hot or Discolored Outlet 🔥

Heat, discoloration, crackling, sparks or a burning smell should never be ignored.

👉 STOP using the outlet and arrange for appropriate inspection by a qualified person.

5️⃣ Damaged Electrical Cord ⚡

Frayed insulation, exposed conductors, crushed sections, damaged plugs or loose connections can create shock, burn and fire hazards.

👉 OSHA requires defective or damaged equipment that could expose workers to injury to be removed from service until properly repaired and tested. 

6️⃣ Using Extension Cords as Permanent Wiring 🏠

Extension cords are intended for appropriate temporary applications, not as a replacement for permanent electrical installation.

👉 If permanent power is required, use a properly installed electrical outlet.

7️⃣ Forcing More Plugs Into an Outlet 🛑

Using unsafe adapters or multiple adapters simply because there are not enough outlets can create an unsafe connection.

👉 Arrange additional properly installed outlets through a qualified electrician.

8️⃣ Ignoring Equipment Ratings 📋

Check the voltage, current/amperage, wattage and cord rating before connecting equipment.

👉 The connected load must remain within the capacity of the electrical system and equipment.

9️⃣ Repeated Circuit-Breaker Tripping ⚠️

A breaker that repeatedly trips should never be treated as a nuisance.

👉 Find the cause. Correct the problem. Then restore power safely. 

---

👷 Electrical Safety — Quick Inspection Before Use

Before using an electrical appliance, extension cord or portable equipment, STOP & CHECK:

🔍 1. Cord — Any cuts, cracks, fraying or exposed wires?

🔌 2. Plug — Pins intact? No damage or loose connection?

⚡ 3. Outlet — Any heat, burning smell, discoloration or damage?

📊 4. Rating — Is the equipment suitable for the circuit and supply?

🌧️ 5. Water — Is the equipment/connection exposed to moisture?

🛡️ 6. Grounding — Is the grounding arrangement intact and suitable?

🔧 7. Condition — Has the equipment been modified or improperly repaired?

🚨 8. Breaker — Has the circuit been tripping repeatedly?

OSHA calls for visual inspection of portable cord-and-plug equipment and extension cords for defects before use in applicable circumstances; damaged equipment should be removed from service until made safe. 

💧 Extra Warning: Electricity + Water = Serious Risk

Never handle energized plugs or electrical equipment with wet hands, and take particular care with electrical equipment and cords in wet or conductive locations. OSHA specifically addresses these conditions. 

🏗️ For Construction & Worksites

For construction applications, OSHA guidance also emphasizes:

✅ Use appropriate 3-wire grounded extension cords

✅ Use cords suitable for hard/extra-hard service where required

✅ Protect cords from abrasion, crushing and sharp edges

✅ Do not modify plugs or grounding arrangements

✅ Inspect cords regularly

✅ Remove damaged or modified cords from service

✅ Consider appropriate GFCI protection where required/applicable 

---

🧠 Easy Safety Formula

STOP → INSPECT → IDENTIFY → ISOLATE → REPORT → CORRECT → VERIFY → RESTART

Don't just ask:

❌ “Why did the breaker trip?”

Ask:

✅ “What caused it to trip, and has the cause been safely corrected?”

---

🛡️ HSE TRAINER SAFETY MESSAGE

⚡ Electricity gives us power—but it does not forgive careless decisions.

One overloaded outlet, one damaged cord, one unsafe connection or one ignored warning sign can change a normal day into a shock, electrical fire, serious injury or fatal incident.

👀 See the hazard.

🛑 Stop the unsafe condition.

🔌 Isolate when appropriate and safe.

📢 Report the problem.

👷 Use a qualified person when electrical work/testing is required.

✅ Never compromise electrical safety for convenience.

🔥 Remember:

“More plugs ≠ more power.

Know the load. Respect the rating.

Inspect before use.

If something looks wrong — STOP!”

#ElectricalSafety

#ElectricalHazards

#HSE

#SafetyAwareness

#ElectricalSafetyAwareness

#SafetyFirst

Lâm Thư Jewelry Safety Pro Sadhguru SAHER ALI 1976

Department of Fertilizers to Observe ‘Swachhata Pakhwada-2026’ from September 1 to 15, 2026

 

Department of Fertilizers to Observe ‘Swachhata Pakhwada-2026’ from September 1 to 15, 2026

Special Thrust on Digital Record Maintenance, e-Office Optimization and Paperless Cleanliness Alongside Physical Upkeep

Posted On: 31 AUG 2026 4:34PM by PIB Delhi

The Department of Fertilizers, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, is observing ‘Swachhata Pakhwada-2026’ from 1st to 15th September, 2026. The primary objective of this nationwide campaign is to foster cleanliness at both physical and digital workplaces, promote environmental conservation, and bring qualitative improvements to work culture. This year, alongside physical cleanliness, special priority is being accorded to ‘Digital Cleanliness and Record Management’ to enhance administrative efficiency, transparency, and further strengthen the e-filing system.

Campaign Focused on Digital Record Management and Data Hygiene:

In view of modern administrative requirements, the Department of Fertilizers has formulated a dedicated strategy for digital cleanliness. Under this initiative, the e-Office and digital filing systems will be streamlined. This includes reviewing pending e-files in the e-Office system, digitally closing/archiving disposed cases, and systematizing databases. Additionally, departmental personnel are being encouraged to purge redundant, spam, and obsolete files/attachments from their official email inboxes to optimize server space.

Union Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda to Inaugurate the Pakhwada:

The Swachhata Pakhwada will commence with an inspiring cleanliness message from Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda. As part of the inaugural proceedings, the Swachhata Pledge will be administered to all officers and staff of the Department. Concurrently, public awareness will be generated regarding the elimination of single-use plastics and promoting the use of cloth bags and reusable bottles.

 Key Schedule of Activities & Programmes:

• September 2 (Physical Record Management): Inspection of physical record rooms; identification and weeding out of old/obsolete files as per Record Retention Rules.
• September 3 (Green Workplace Initiative): Distribution of awareness-themed cotton T-shirts and a plantation drive led by senior officers.
• September 7 (Scrap Disposal): Identification and systematic disposal of condemned equipment, obsolete furniture, and e-waste through prescribed procedures.
• September 8 (Public Grievance Redressal): Expedited review and disposal of pending references received via CPGRAMS, PMO, Members of Parliament, and State Governments.
• September 9 (Digital Cleanliness Day): A dedicated, department-wide digital sanitization drive focusing on the clean-up and systematic organization of e-files, cloud drives, and official mailboxes.
• September 10 (Community Shramdaan): Collective voluntary clean-up drives (Shramdaan) across office premises and surrounding zones by all officials.
• September 11 (Hygiene & Infrastructure Audit): Signature campaign for sustainability and rigorous safety audits of drinking water facilities and sanitation amenities.
• September 14 (Creative Engagement): Essay writing and ideation contests for staff on institutionalizing cleanliness and digital efficiency.

The Department of Fertilizers urges all officers, staff members and affiliated organizations to actively participate in Swachhata Pakhwada-2026, embracing both physical and digital cleanliness as a sustainable daily practice to build a smarter, greener, and more responsive administrative ecosystem.

Prime Minister lauds India’s 7.8% GDP growth

 

Prime Minister  lauds India’s 7.8% GDP growth 

Posted On: 31 AUG 2026 5:09PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister,  Shri Narendra Modi has termed India’s 7.8% GDP growth in first quarter of FY 2026-27 a “herculean feat”. Shri Modi said that the achievement reflects the collective strength and resilience of the people of India, despite oil price shocks, supply chain disruptions and global uncertainties.

Shri Modi posted on X:

India’s exemplary GDP growth of 7.8% during Q1 of FY 2026-27 is a herculean feat.

The collective strength of our people ensured India delivered such growth despite oil price shocks and supply chain issues in the midst of global uncertainties.

Doomsayers were doomed and India bloomed…yet again!

satellite image

 

In 2026, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) continues to enforce the foundational Biomedical Waste Management (BMWM) Rules, 2016 alongside strengthened statutory modifications like the 2026 BMW Amendment Rules

 In 2026, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) continues to enforce the foundational Biomedical Waste Management (BMWM) Rules, 2016 alongside strengthened statutory modifications like the 2026 BMW Amendment Rules. These regulations dictate that all Health Care Establishments (HCEs), laboratories, and clinics must comply with rigid waste segregation, tracking, and authorized disposal mechanisms via state pollution control portals. 

The primary addition in 2026 highlights a centralized shift: the integration of all HCE segments (including expanded tracking for AYUSH hospitals and clinics) into a unified ecosystem linked with real-time barcode tracking to monitor waste flow from generation to final disposal. [1]

Color-Coded Segregation Guidelines

The bedrock of CPCB compliance requires dividing biomedical waste at the source into four distinct color-coded categories: [1]

• Yellow Bag: Human/animal anatomical waste, soiled waste (cotton, bandages, plaster casts), expired/discarded medicines, chemical waste, and microbiology/lab waste.
• Red Bag: Contaminated recyclable waste generated from disposable items such as tubing, bottles, intravenous tubes, catheters, and syringes (without needles).
• White Translucent Container: Waste sharps including needles, syringes with fixed needles, blades, and scalpels. These containers must be puncture-proof and tamper-proof.
• Blue Box/Pouch: Glassware (broken or unbroken medicine vials and ampoules) and metallic body implants.

📋 Key Compliance Process for HCEs

To legally operate under the current framework, healthcare installations must execute a six-step compliance loop: [1]

1. Obtain Authorization: Non-bedded occupiers receive one-time authorization, while bedded facilities must routinely renew their State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) authorization online.
2. Barcode & Labeling: Every bag or container must feature a specific barcode and a global biohazard label to trace the waste path from the generation ward directly to the treatment plant.
3. Storage Restrictions: Biomedical waste cannot be stored internally for more than 48 hours before it is collected by an authorized waste handling vehicle.
4. Mandatory CBWTF Handover: HCEs are prohibited from treating waste on-premise unless pre-approved; all waste must be safely transferred to a Common Biomedical Waste Treatment Facility (CBWTF).
5. Annual Return Filing: All HCEs must submit their detailed annual generation and disposal records online using Form IV before 30th June every year

National Biodiversity Authority disburses Rs. 5.68 Crore in Access and Benefit-Sharing Funds for Biodiversity Conservation

 

National Biodiversity Authority disburses Rs. 5.68 Crore in Access and Benefit-Sharing Funds for Biodiversity Conservation

Posted On: 30 AUG 2026 8:10PM by PIB Delhi

The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has disbursed Rs. 5.68 crore under the Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) mechanism arising from the utilisation of biological resources. The funds have been channelled to State Biodiversity Boards (SBBs), Union Territory Biodiversity Councils (UTBCs) and a national research institution, primarily in relation to Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) and Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), besides specified microbial and agricultural biological resources.

The largest ABS component relates to Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus), covering 139 varieties and 28 hybrids, for which the NBA has released Rs. 3.51 crore to 32 State Biodiversity Boards and Union Territory Biodiversity Councils. The ABS amount was received from M/s. Nunhems India Pvt. Ltd. in connection with its access to Okra.

The other major ABS components relate to Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus), covering 662 varieties and 15 hybrids and Cucumber (Cucumis sativus), covering 1009 varieties and 14 hybrids. These biological resources were accessed through markets/traders by M/s. Nunhems India Pvt. Ltd., M/s. East West Seeds India Pvt. Ltd. and M/s. Bayer Science and Innovation Pvt. Ltd.

The major ABS recipients among the State Biodiversity Boards and Union Territory Biodiversity Councils are:

Sl. No.	States/UTs	Amount released (Rs.)
1.	Gujarat	88,79,304
2.	West Bengal	78,08,691
3.	Madhya Pradesh	64,90,418
4.	Odisha	59,01,641
5.	Bihar	45,59,602
6.	Uttar Pradesh	36,90,952
7.	Tamil Nadu	34,11,119
8.	Andhra Pradesh	30,58,472
9.	Chhattisgarh	24,82,991
10.	Maharashtra	17,57,359
11.	Others	87,77,728
	Total	5,68,18,277

In these cases, the biological resources were accessed from markets and traders, making it not feasible to trace them to specific individual farmers, communities or a single identifiable geographic source. Accordingly, the modality recommended by the Expert Committee and approved by the Authority provides for distribution of the beneficiary share among the States and Union Territories where the concerned biological resource is cultivated.

In addition, the NBA has disbursed benefit-sharing funds to CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) – National Culture of Industrial Microorganisms, Pune, from an ABS amount received from M/s. Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd., Mumbai.

The funds disbursed to the SBBs and UTBCs are to be utilised as per Section 32 of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, for activities supporting the objectives of the Act. These include documentation and updation of People's Biodiversity Registers; conservation and sustainable use of biological resources; restoration of degraded ecosystems; protection of wild relatives of cultivated plants; strengthening of Biodiversity Heritage Sites; development and maintenance of biodiversity databases; capacity building; research; and community-oriented livelihood enhancement activities.

The funds disbursed to the research institution are to support activities including maintenance of repositories of biological resources, research and bio-survey activities, capacity building in taxonomy and conservation, and in-situ and ex-situ conservation.

With this disbursement, the total ABS amount disbursed by the NBA so far has crossed Rs. 191 crore. The disbursements reaffirm the NBA's commitment to ensuring that benefits arising from the utilisation of India's biological resources are directed towards biodiversity conservation, sustainable use, strengthening of institutional capacities and activities benefiting communities and other stakeholders associated with the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.