India’s Commitment to Marine Biodiversity: Signing the High Seas Treaty

Overview of the High Seas Treaty

India is poised to sign the global ‘High Seas Treaty,’ officially known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement. This international treaty, developed under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), aims to address the escalating concerns regarding the protection and sustainable use of marine biodiversity in high seas—areas that lie beyond any nation’s jurisdiction.

Key Features of the BBNJ Agreement

• Sustainable Use of Marine Resources: The treaty establishes frameworks for the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction through international cooperation and coordination.
• Fair Benefit Sharing: It ensures that benefits derived from marine resources are shared fairly and equitably among all countries.
• Prohibition on Sovereign Claims: Signatories cannot claim or exercise sovereign rights over marine resources in the high seas.
• Capacity Building and Technology Transfer: The agreement promotes capacity building, access to scientific research, technological advancements, and the sharing of knowledge and information.

India’s Commitment and Strategic Interests

On July 2, 2024, the Indian Cabinet approved the decision to sign the BBNJ Agreement. This move showcases India’s dedication to global environmental conservation and sustainable development.

• Environmental Conservation: India’s commitment to environmental conservation is evident in its proactive participation in international treaties and agreements. The signing of the BBNJ Agreement aligns with India’s broader environmental goals.
• Strategic Presence: The treaty allows India to enhance its strategic presence in international waters, potentially opening new avenues for scientific research, marine conservation, and technological innovation.

Global Context and Timeline

The BBNJ Agreement was finalized in March 2023 and opened for signature in September 2023. It requires ratification by at least 60 countries to become legally binding, with a 120-day period after the 60th ratification for it to enter into force. As of June 2024, 91 countries have signed the treaty, and eight have ratified it. M Ravichandran, Secretary of MoES, stated, “The Agreement allows us to enhance our strategic presence in areas beyond our EEZ, which is very promising. In addition to shared monetary benefits, it will further strengthen our marine conservation efforts and collaborations, open newer avenues for scientific research and development, access to samples, sequences, and information, capacity building and technology transfer, etc., not just for us but for the benefit of the entire humankind.”

Implications for India

• Enhanced Marine Conservation: The treaty will bolster India’s efforts in marine conservation, allowing for better protection of biodiversity in international waters.
• Scientific Research Opportunities: Access to new marine areas will provide Indian scientists with opportunities to conduct groundbreaking research.
• Technological Advancements: The treaty promotes technology transfer and capacity building, potentially leading to significant advancements in marine technology and innovation.

Conclusion

India’s decision to sign the BBNJ Agreement highlights its commitment to global environmental stewardship and sustainable development. By participating in this international treaty, India not only strengthens its strategic presence in the high seas but also contributes to the collective effort to protect and sustainably use marine biodiversity for the benefit of all humankind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the High Seas Treaty about?
Answer: The High Seas Treaty, or BBNJ Agreement, focuses on the sustainable use and protection of marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, promoting international cooperation.

Q2. When did India approve the signing of the BBNJ Agreement?
Answer: India’s Cabinet approved signing the BBNJ Agreement on July 2, 2024, demonstrating its commitment to marine conservation and sustainable development.

Q3. How many countries need to ratify the BBNJ Agreement for it to be effective?
Answer: A minimum of 60 countries must ratify the BBNJ Agreement for it to become legally binding, with a 120-day period after the 60th ratification for it to take effect.

Q4. What are the benefits of the BBNJ Agreement for India?
Answer: The agreement enhances India’s marine conservation efforts, offers new opportunities for scientific research, and facilitates technology transfer, contributing to advancements in marine technology.

Q5. What is the significance of fair benefit sharing in the treaty?
Answer: Fair benefit sharing ensures that all countries receive equitable benefits from marine resources, promoting fairness and collaboration in the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does the BBNJ Agreement focus on?
A) Land biodiversity conservation
B) Sustainable use of marine biodiversity
C) National resource claims
D) Space exploration
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: How many countries have signed the BBNJ Agreement as of June 2024?
A) 50
B) 60
C) 91
D) 120
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: What is one of the key features of the BBNJ Agreement?
A) Sovereign rights over marine resources
B) Prohibition on fair benefit sharing
C) Capacity building and technology transfer
D) Exclusion of scientific research
Correct Answer: C