Central Environment Minister Issues Guidelines for Determining India's Area‑Based Conservation Measures at CBD COP‑17

Central Environment Minister Shri Bhupendra Yadav today, during the 17th World Climate Conference (CBD COP‑17) held in Yerevan, Armenia, presented a new framework for India’s Area‑Based Conservation Measures (ABCM). The aim of this initiative is to align India’s biodiversity conservation programme with global standards by 2026 and to enhance coordination with the international community.

According to the guidelines, India will have to conduct detailed mapping of its natural habitats, ecosystems and culturally significant areas and register them as “Other Effective Area‑Based Conservation Measures” (IEOCM). This step makes national conservation plans more transparent and measurable, clearly demonstrating India’s commitment to global biodiversity goals. The minister said that the framework will be based on national policy, management plans and scientific assessments, and its implementation will require partnerships with state governments, local communities and non‑governmental organizations.

With this announcement, India also reinforced its 2030 biodiversity strategy, which includes a target to protect more than 25% of its area. On the CBD COP‑17 platform, India also stated that through these guidelines it will share best practices with other countries and promote the importance of area‑based conservation at the global level. The minister assured that India will implement this initiative in a timely and effective manner, thereby increasing the country’s environmental responsibilities and strengthening its role in tackling global climate change.