Section 8 of BDA : Section 8: Establishment Of National Biodiversity Authority

Explanation using Example

Imagine a pharmaceutical company that has discovered a potential new drug compound from a rare plant species found only in a remote part of India. Before they can conduct research or use this plant for drug development, they need to seek approval from the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA).

Upon learning about the requirement, the company submits an application to the NBA, outlining their intended research and how they plan to share the benefits arising from the drug's development with the local communities where the plant is found.

The NBA, with its office headquartered in Chennai, reviews the application. The Chairperson, an expert in biodiversity conservation, leads a team of members, including those with expertise in agriculture, biotechnology, and traditional medicine, to assess the company's plans for equitable benefit-sharing.

After careful consideration and several rounds of negotiation, the NBA grants approval to the company, with conditions ensuring that a portion of the profits will be invested back into the conservation of the plant species and the economic development of the local community. This ensures that the exploitation of biological resources also contributes to the welfare of the indigenous people and the sustainable use of biodiversity.