The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has constituted an Expert Committee on Invasive Alien Species following directions from the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
Background of the Decision
The move comes after a suo motu proceeding by the NGT, which highlighted the serious ecological and socio-economic threats posed by invasive alien species to biodiversity, agriculture, food security, and human and wildlife health.
The committee has been formed under the provisions of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 (amended in 2023), empowering the NBA to address biodiversity-related challenges.
Mandate of the Committee
The multi-disciplinary committee has been tasked with:
- Preparing a consolidated national list of invasive alien species based on State inputs
- Identifying and prioritising high-risk species
- Recommending science-based management and ecological restoration strategies
- Developing national guidelines for prevention, control, and eradication
Major Invasive Species in India
Reports indicate that nearly two-thirds of India’s natural ecosystems are already affected by at least 11 major invasive plant species. Some prominent invasive species include:
- Lantana camara
- Chromolaena odorata
- Senna spectabilis
- Prosopis juliflora
Source: PIB
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