India Commits to Preserving Biodiversity for Future Generations

New Delhi- At the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (UNCBD) COP16 plenary session, India reaffirmed its dedication to preserving biodiversity for both present and future generations. Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh, emphasized India's dedication to preserving both national and global biodiversity for future generations, echoing the sentiment of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" - One Earth, One Family, One Future.

Singh announced that India will soon release its updated National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) in Cali. This updated plan aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, reflecting a "Whole of Government" and "Whole of Society" approach.

The Minister highlighted India's rich natural heritage, boasting four of the world's 36 biodiversity hotspots and ranking among the 17 mega-diverse countries. He emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" (Plant4Mother) campaign, launched on World Environment Day, as a testament to the nation's commitment to conservation.

Singh underscored India's commitment to sustainable living through its "Lifestyle for the Environment" (LiFE) mission, a global initiative promoting sustainable practices. He also highlighted several successful conservation efforts, including the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) for safeguarding the world's seven big cat species and the Namami Gange mission, recognized by the UN as one of the top 10 World Restoration Flagships.

Furthermore, Singh noted India's significant progress in increasing its Ramsar sites from 26 in 2014 to 85 today, with an ambitious target of reaching 100 in the near future.