Environment & Ecology : Conservation Efforts: Institutional & Programmatic
UPSC CSE Prelims 2012
Statements 1 and 3 are correct.
The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), established under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, is mandated to prevent biopiracy and protect indigenous and traditional genetic resources. This directly safeguards Indian agriculture by preserving native genetic diversity and associated traditional knowledge.
The Biological Diversity Act, 2002, stipulates that prior approval from the NBA is essential before applying for Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) related to genetic or biological resources originating from India. This provision ensures equitable benefit sharing and prevents unauthorized commercial exploitation, thereby protecting India's agricultural genetic wealth.
Statement 2 is incorrect.
The NBA does not directly monitor or supervise scientific research on genetic modification of crop plants. This responsibility primarily rests with the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), which functions under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, as per the Rules for the Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms/Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells, 1989.
Option (a) is incorrect as Statement 3 is also correct.
Option (b) is incorrect as Statement 2 is incorrect.
Option (d) is incorrect as it includes the incorrect Statement 2.