Access and Benefit Sharing Mechanism at Work
The financial support is sourced from the benefit-sharing amounts collected from users of Red Sanders. The ABS mechanism, governed by the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 (amended in 2023), ensures equitable benefit distribution to local communities, individuals, and Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs). This initiative exemplifies how policy frameworks can transform conservation into community-driven action.
Native to the Southern Eastern Ghats, Red Sanders is found mainly in Anantapur, Chittoor, Kadapa, and Kurnool districts. Its high commercial value has led to widespread smuggling. The species is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which strictly regulates its international trade.
Previous and Ongoing Conservation Efforts
NBA has previously released over ₹31.55 crore to the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department for various Red Sanders conservation initiatives. The current ₹82 lakh sanction focuses on grassroots-level efforts, involving local communities and tribal populations in nursery development, plantation, and long-term care. These activities not only promote biodiversity conservation but also generate employment, build skills, and strengthen community stewardship.
Supporting National and Global Biodiversity Goals
The initiative reinforces India’s National Biodiversity Targets and highlights the country’s commitment to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). By linking the ABS mechanism to practical conservation projects, the program ensures sustainable management of biological resources while empowering local communities.