Agricultural scientist P. L. Gautam has been appointed as the chairperson of an Expert Committee on Agrobiodiversity. The committee, reconstituted by the National Biodiversity Authority, will focus on guiding the conservation, sustainable use, and benefit-sharing of agricultural biodiversity. Gautam, a Padma Shri awardee, brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at the National Biodiversity Authority and the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority.
The Expert Committee will play a crucial role in advising on the integration of biodiversity considerations into the agriculture sector. It aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices in alignment with India’s NBSAP Targets 4 and 13. Additionally, the committee will contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals related to Zero Hunger, Climate Action, and Life on Land through the conservation and sustainable use of agricultural genetic resources.
Since 2005, the Expert Committee on Agrobiodiversity has been a key advisory body for the National Biodiversity Authority. Comprising eminent agricultural scientists and experts, the committee has periodically addressed emerging issues concerning agricultural genetic resources. Its recommendations have been instrumental in supporting the implementation of the Biological Diversity Act by providing expert guidance on various agricultural biodiversity matters.
The reconstituted Committee includes experts and senior representatives from prominent institutions such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, and National Bureaus of Plant, Animal, and Fish Genetic Resources. This diverse composition ensures a comprehensive approach to addressing agricultural biodiversity challenges and fostering sustainable agricultural practices in India.
