Why in news
India recently signed the High Seas Treaty (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction or BBNJ Agreement), which aims to protect marine ecosystems and manage resources in international waters.
Why in news
India recently signed the High Seas Treaty (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction or BBNJ Agreement), which aims to protect marine ecosystems and manage resources in international waters.
Focuses on:
Conserving marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.
Ensuring equitable sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources.
Mandating environmental impact assessments for activities that may harm marine ecosystems.
Capacity Building and Transfer of Marine Technologies to help developing countries to fully utilise the benefits of the oceans while also contributing to their conservation
Significance for India
The treaty aligns with India's interest in safeguarding oceans and marine life, which are crucial for its coastal economy.
It promotes sustainable use of marine resources, which is vital for India’s fisheries and maritime trade.
India's involvement strengthens its leadership in international environmental governance and cooperation, particularly in the Indian Ocean region.
Ratifying the treaty strengthens India's Indo-Pacific position, supporting a sustainable maritime environment through the SAGAR initiative.
The treaty faces challenges, such as jurisdictional disputes and weak enforcement, which could affect its impact on countries like India that depend on marine resources for their livelihoods.
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