Biodiversity conservation is inevitably a requisite in our dynamic world. In a
highly populous country like India, conservation of biodiversity and a strong
communication, education and public awareness initiative is most essential for its
sustenance. A strategy is required to have a deep understanding of our diverse
biogeographic regions and locale specific traditions that are closely linked to
bioresources. This requires an appreciation of the persons associated with the
conservation of both natural and cultural diversity. For conservation of biodiversity to
become a part of a people’s action program, there is a need for their efforts to be
recognized and rewarded. This has led to creating awards for biodiversity conservation
and/or sustainable use at the national level. To recognize and publicly acknowledge
such contributions that have led to positive biodiversity conservation actions and
societal equity of resource utilization, the Government of India has established the
‘India Biodiversity Awards’ which are informative and replicable at the international
level.
Keywords: Awards, Awareness, Benefit sharing, Biodiversity, Conservation,
Recognition.
