What Recent Funding Did the Biodiversity Authority Provide for Red Sanders Growers in Andhra?
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Synopsis
The National Biodiversity Authority has allocated Rs 45 lakh to Red Sanders cultivators in Andhra Pradesh, marking a significant boost to biodiversity conservation and farmer livelihoods. This funding exemplifies India's commitment to sustainable practices and economic opportunities for local communities involved in Red Sanders cultivation.
Key Takeaways
- The NBA released Rs 45 lakh to Red Sanders farmers, demonstrating support for biodiversity.
- Total ABS disbursements in India have surpassed Rs 143.5 crore.
- Red Sanders cultivation offers dual income opportunities for farmers.
- The ABS framework encourages sustainable practices and benefits sharing.
- NBA's efforts are crucial for the conservation of biodiversity and support for local communities.
New Delhi, Jan 2 (NationPress) The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has announced another round of Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) funding, granting Rs 45 lakh (approximately $50,000) to Red Sanders farmers in Andhra Pradesh via the State Biodiversity Board, an official disclosed on Friday.
This latest funding brings India's total ABS disbursements to over Rs 143.5 crore (around $16 millionMinistry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
The program highlights the economic prospects for Red Sanders growers, who benefit financially in two ways: first, by legally selling harvested Red Sanders wood and logs, and second, by receiving financial compensation through the ABS mechanism established by the Biological Diversity Act of 2002.
The ABS framework directly compensates farmers for the conservation and sustainable use of a globally significant endemic species, the official stated.
To date, the NBA has allocated more than Rs 104 crore (about $11.5 million) specifically for Red Sanders conservation in Andhra Pradesh, along with over Rs 15 crore (approximately $1.66 million) to other states such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Telangana.
In the past three months, the NBA has distributed ABS funds totaling Rs 5.35 crore to over 220 Red Sanders farmers from Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana.
The NBA’s ABS mechanism not only guarantees fair and equitable distribution of benefits but also actively encourages sustainable practices, aiming to reduce illegal trading and over-exploitation, as noted in the statement.
By aligning conservation results with tangible bio-economic rewards, the ABS framework has shifted Red Sanders from a strictly protected species to a valuable asset that supports the livelihoods of farming communities.
The NBA's ongoing commitment to facilitating ABS funds for beneficiaries plays a crucial role in conservation, scientific research, and the economic development of farmers and local communities.
The NBA is dedicated to preserving Red Sanders for future generations, while simultaneously enhancing livelihoods and reinforcing India’s standing in global biodiversity conservation initiatives.
Point of View
I acknowledge the critical role that the National Biodiversity Authority plays in balancing conservation with economic opportunities. The funding for Red Sanders cultivators demonstrates a proactive approach to preserving biodiversity while supporting farmers. This initiative highlights the importance of sustainable practices and showcases India's leadership in global biodiversity conservation efforts.
NationPress
10/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the ABS funding?
The ABS funding aims to support farmers in conserving and sustainably utilizing endemic species like Red Sanders while providing them with financial benefits.
How much has been disbursed for Red Sanders conservation?
The NBA has released over Rs 104 crore for Red Sanders conservation efforts in Andhra Pradesh alone.
What are the benefits for Red Sanders cultivators?
Cultivators benefit from the legal sale of Red Sanders wood and logs, along with monetary rewards through the ABS mechanism.
Which states have received ABS funding?
Apart from Andhra Pradesh, ABS funding has been allocated to Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Telangana.
What is the significance of the ABS framework?
The ABS framework ensures fair benefit-sharing and promotes sustainable practices, which help in reducing illegal activities related to biodiversity.
