National Advisory Board on Genetic Resources

Summary: National Advisory Board on Management of Genetic Resources

1. Formation and Purpose:

   • The National Advisory Board on Management of Genetic Resources (NABMGR) was reconstituted in 2026 under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
   • The board aims to ensure the sustainable use and conservation of agricultural biodiversity, focusing on plants, animals, fish, microbial, and insect genetic resources.

2. Strategic Importance:

   • Recognizes the strategic importance of genetic resources for food security, nutrition, environmental sustainability, and livelihoods in India.
   • Emphasizes the need for integrated management of genetic resources to support climate-resilient agriculture.

3. Leadership:

   • Chaired by Dr. Proda, former Secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education.
   • Co-chaired by Dr. M.L. Jat, Director General of ICAR.

4. Key Recommendations:

   • Development of national policies and strategies regarding agricultural biodiversity.
   • Promotion of the use of wild relatives in crop improvement programs to enhance genetic diversity and resilience.
   • Strengthening international cooperation for access to genetic resources, especially with Central and Southeast Asian countries.

5. Legal Framework:

   • Advocacy for a legal structure to protect the rights of breeders and farmers under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Act.
   • A framework is proposed to safeguard the interests of livestock and fish farmers while encouraging innovation.

6. Integration with Technology:

   • Emphasizes the need to integrate genetic resource management with advancements in soil science, digital agriculture, and crop improvement.

7. National Agricultural Research System:

   • India has established a robust national agricultural research, education, and extension system, significantly aiding in the conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources.

8. Strategic Planning for 2026-2031:

   • Directors from six ICAR national bureaus presented achievements and outlined roadmaps for sustainable development aligned with national priorities.
   • Recommendations include identifying unexplored areas for germplasm collection and enhancing collaboration among national genetic resource management frameworks.

9. Biodiversity Act Review:

   • The board reviewed its responsibilities under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and discussed measures to strengthen the implementation of access and benefit-sharing provisions.

10. Future Initiatives:

    • Plans for a comprehensive inter-institutional program to mainstream traditional and underutilized crop varieties, animal breeds, fish species, microorganisms, and insects.
    • Progress on establishing a National Safety Gene Bank (NSGB) was highlighted, with goals set for completion before ICAR's centenary celebrations in 2028-29.

11. Expected Outcomes:

    • The board's recommendations are expected to enhance the management of agricultural biodiversity, promote agricultural resilience, and contribute to food security and sustainable development in alignment with the "Vikast Bharat" vision.

This summary encapsulates the key facts, policies, and recommendations from the meeting of the National Advisory Board on the Management of Genetic Resources, reflecting its significance for India's agricultural biodiversity and sustainability efforts.