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Stricter NBA Norms Boost Transparency and Drive Innovation
Anytime News Network
India is witnessing a significant shift in the intersection of science, innovation, and regulatory governance. According to the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), there has been a sharp rise in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) filings related to biological resources following the implementation of the Biological Diversity (Amendment) Act, 2023.
The revised framework mandates that applicants must obtain a Certificate of Registration (CoR) from the NBA before filing patents or other IPR claims involving biological resources originating in India. This requirement has strengthened compliance, enhanced transparency, and ensured accountability, while also promoting fair and equitable benefit-sharing.
Data reflects a clear upward trend. Between April 2024 and March 2025, around 857 applications were received, out of which 792 were approved. The momentum continued in the following year, with 1,077 applications recorded between April 2025 and March 2026, and 885 CoRs issued. This growth indicates increasing trust in the streamlined regulatory system and improved efficiency in processing applications.
The applications span diverse sectors including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food science, microbiology, biomedical engineering, and agri-based industries. Experts believe this trend highlights the growing importance of a structured regulatory ecosystem in knowledge-driven sectors.
By simplifying approval procedures and enforcing prior registration, the amended law is fostering a responsible innovation ecosystem—balancing scientific advancement with conservation priorities while ensuring fair benefit-sharing among stakeholders.
This regulatory evolution not only enhances ease of doing research and business but also positions India as a key player in sustainable and innovation-driven growth.
