16th National Meet of State Biodiversity Boards and Union Territory Biodiversity Councils held at Chandigarh; Deliberations to focus on effective Implementation of the Biodiversity Governance Framework at the State and local levels
The 16th National Meet of State Biodiversity Boards and Union Territory Biodiversity Councils was inaugurated in Chandigarh, focusing on effective implementation of the biodiversity governance framework at state and local levels. Organised by the National Biodiversity Authority, the two-day event brings together officials, experts, and scientists to discuss conservation, community participation, and institutional strengthening.
Why It Matters
This is relevant for competitive exam candidates studying environmental governance, national policies like the Biological Diversity Act, and biodiversity conservation initiatives in India.
In Simple Words
The 16th National Meet of State Biodiversity Boards and Union Territory Biodiversity Councils started in Chandigarh on September 6, 2026. Organised by the National Biodiversity Authority, this two-day event gathers officials and scientists to discuss improving biodiversity governance.
Dignitaries emphasized linking ecological security with sustainable development, strengthening Biodiversity Management Committees, and using People's Biodiversity Registers for local planning. Discussions also covered Access and Benefit Sharing funds and India's Updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.
Key Points
- The 16th National Meet of SBBs and UTBCs was held at Chandigarh from 6-7 September 2026.
- The event was organised by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA).
- The inaugural session was presided over by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, and Haryana Minister Rao Narbir Singh.
- There are more than 2.76 lakh Biodiversity Management Committees in India.
- The National Biodiversity Authority has shared over 200 crore rupees of Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) funds with stakeholders.
- India submitted its 7th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity and the 1st National Report on the Nagoya Protocol.
- The event featured the release of knowledge products including a document on the last one year achievements of the NBA.
- India's Updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) 2024–2030 aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Exam Angle
A. National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)
Source: Press Information Bureau