NBA Reconstitutes Agrobiodiversity Committee; Dr P L Gautam Appointed Chair
The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has reformed its Agrobiodiversity Expert Committee, appointing Padma Shri Dr P L Gautam as its new chairperson.
Source: PIB All ReleasesThe National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has reconstituted its Agrobiodiversity Expert Committee. This committee plays a crucial role in advising the NBA on matters related to the conservation and sustainable use of agrobiodiversity in India. Padma Shri Dr P L Gautam has been appointed as the new Chairperson of this expert committee. Dr Gautam is a distinguished agricultural scientist and former Vice-Chancellor of G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology. His appointment is expected to bring significant expertise to the committee's work. The committee's mandate includes providing recommendations on policies, programs, and strategies for protecting genetic resources of crops, livestock, and other agricultural biodiversity. This move by the National Biodiversity Authority aims to strengthen India's efforts in preserving its rich agricultural heritage and ensuring food security through biodiversity conservation.
This news is important for competitive exams under Environment & Biodiversity (UPSC GS Paper III, SSC General Awareness). Aspirants should know about the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), its functions, and the significance of agrobiodiversity. Questions can arise on the role of such expert committees in policy formulation and the importance of conserving agricultural genetic resources for sustainable development and food security.
- The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) reconstituted its Agrobiodiversity Expert Committee.
- Padma Shri Dr P L Gautam was appointed as the new Chairperson of the committee.
- Dr P L Gautam is a former Vice-Chancellor of G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology.
- The committee advises the NBA on conservation and sustainable use of agrobiodiversity.
- Agrobiodiversity includes genetic resources of crops, livestock, and other agricultural species.
- The NBA operates under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
The NBA is a statutory autonomous body established in 2003 by the Government of India under Section 8 of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. Its headquarters are in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It facilitates the implementation of the Act, advises the government on biodiversity conservation, and regulates access to biological resources.
Agrobiodiversity refers to the variety and variability of animals, plants, and microorganisms that are important for food and agriculture. It includes all components of biological diversity relevant to food and agriculture, such as genetic resources of crops, livestock, forest trees, and aquatic organisms, as well as the diversity of ecosystems.
This Act was passed by the Parliament of India to provide for the conservation of biological diversity, sustainable use of its components, and fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the use of biological resources. It aims to implement the provisions of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
UPSC often asks about statutory bodies like NBA, their establishment year, parent ministry, and key functions. SSC exams may focus on the full form of NBA or the year of the Biological Diversity Act. Be prepared for questions on the importance of biodiversity conservation.
Remember 'NBA' for 'National Biodiversity Authority' and 'Agro' for 'Agriculture'. Dr. P.L. Gautam is 'G' for 'Green' agriculture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main role of the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)?
The NBA's main role is to implement India's Biological Diversity Act, 2002. It advises the Central Government on matters related to biodiversity conservation, sustainable use of biological resources, and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their use. It also regulates access to biological resources for commercial purposes.
Who is Dr P L Gautam and what is his significance?
Dr P L Gautam is a distinguished agricultural scientist and a recipient of the Padma Shri award. He previously served as the Vice-Chancellor of G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology. His appointment as Chairperson of the Agrobiodiversity Expert Committee brings vast experience in agricultural research and policy to the NBA.
Why is agrobiodiversity important for India?
Agrobiodiversity is crucial for India's food security and agricultural sustainability. It provides genetic resources for developing new crop varieties resistant to pests and diseases, adapting to climate change, and ensuring diverse food options. Conserving it helps maintain ecological balance and supports rural livelihoods.