India has emerged as the world's leading nation in issuing Internationally Recognized Compliance Certificates

India has emerged as the world's leading nation in issuing Internationally Recognized Compliance Certificates

¨ India has emerged as the world's leading nation in issuing Internationally Recognized Compliance Certificates (IRCCs).

¨     These certificates are issued under the 'Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit-Sharing.'

¨     IRCCs serve as official confirmations of compliance with regulatory norms.

¨     They verify that Prior Informed Consent has been obtained.

¨     They also confirm that Mutually Agreed Terms have been established.

¨     These agreements are concluded between the users and providers of genetic resources.

¨     IRCCs promote transparency in the utilization of biological material.

¨     They also ensure the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from such utilization.

¨     Data from the ABS Clearing-House highlights India's strong standing in this domain.

¨     India has issued 3,561 IRCCs globally. The total number of IRCCs issued worldwide stands at 6,311.

¨     India accounts for over 56 percent of all certificates issued.

¨     A total of 142 countries are registered on this platform; however, only 34 of them have issued IRCCs.

¨    France ranks second in this regard, having issued 964 certificates.

¨    Other contributing nations include Spain, Argentina, Panama, and Kenya.

¨    This performance by India reflects the robust implementation of its ABS framework.

¨    This framework is underpinned by the 'Biological Diversity Act, 2002.'