Introduction
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved India’s signing of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement. This significant decision marks a major step towards the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
Cabinet Approval and Significance
The approval was granted during the Cabinet meeting held on July 02, 2024. Often referred to as the ‘High Seas’, areas beyond national jurisdiction are global common oceans open for internationally lawful purposes like navigation, overflight, and laying submarine cables and pipelines. The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) will lead the implementation of the BBNJ Agreement in India.
Ministry of Earth Sciences’ Role
The Ministry of Earth Sciences is tasked with spearheading the country’s efforts under the BBNJ Agreement. This aligns with India’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development, emphasizing scientific progress, international collaboration, governance, transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
Statements from Key Officials
Dr. Jitendra Singh, Honourable Minister of State (Independent Charge) of MoES and other ministries, stated, “India remains committed and proactive to the global cause of environmental conservation and sustainable development. We will be signing the BBNJ Agreement and are optimistic about subsequently ratifying it through the necessary legislative processes.”
Dr. M Ravichandran, Secretary of MoES, highlighted the benefits for India, saying, “The BBNJ Agreement allows us to enhance our strategic presence in areas beyond our EEZ, promising shared monetary benefits, strengthened marine conservation efforts, new avenues for scientific research and development, access to samples, sequences and information, capacity building, and technology transfer.”
BBNJ Agreement Details
The BBNJ Agreement, also known as the ‘High Seas Treaty’, is an international treaty under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). It addresses long-term protection of marine biodiversity in the high seas, setting mechanisms for sustainable use through international cooperation. The treaty emphasizes an inclusive, ecosystem-centric approach based on the precautionary principle, traditional knowledge, and the best available scientific knowledge.
UNCLOS and International Collaboration
UNCLOS, adopted on December 10, 1982, and effective from November 16, 1994, is essential for environmental protection of the seas, addressing maritime boundaries, rights to marine resources, and dispute resolution. The BBNJ Agreement will be the third implementation agreement under UNCLOS, alongside the 1994 Part XI Implementation Agreement and the 1995 UN Fish Stocks Agreement.
Future Implications for India
India signing the BBNJ Agreement is crucial for ensuring healthy and resilient oceans. The agreement will enhance India’s strategic presence beyond its EEZ, promote marine conservation, and open new scientific research avenues, benefiting all humankind.
Conclusion
The Union Cabinet’s approval of India’s signing of the BBNJ Agreement signifies a crucial step towards marine biodiversity conservation and sustainable utilization. This agreement aligns with India’s commitment to global environmental conservation and international cooperation, ensuring a healthy future for the world’s oceans.
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