An Overview of Framework and Case Studies Related to ABS in Plant Genetic Resources

The global framework to ensure benefit sharing arising out of the use of plant genetic resources is covered under different regimes such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources and the Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources. Complying with the CBD, the Government of India enacted the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 and set up the National Biodiversity Authority, State Biodiversity Boards, and Biodiversity Management Committees to regulate access and benefit sharing while utilizing biological resources and traditional knowledge. This article aims to highlight some cases of access and benefit sharing related to plant genetic resources to understand how the access and benefit sharing mechanism is applied in relation to plant genetic resources. Suggestions for improvements are listed in the conclusions including documentation of farmers and public institution bred varieties.