India Signs Global Ocean Treaty To Protect Marine Biodiversity

India has officially signed the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) agreement, an international treaty, known as ocean treaty, aimed at protecting marine biodiversity on the high seas. External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar signed the agreement at the UN Headquarters in New York.

In a post on social media platform X, Jaishankar stated, “India is proud to join the BBNJ Agreement, an important step towards ensuring that our oceans remain healthy and resilient.”

The BBNJ agreement, which is legally binding and falls under the Law of the Sea framework, aims to conserve marine life and promote sustainable use of resources beyond national jurisdictions. High seas refer to areas beyond a nation’s territorial waters and exclusive economic zones, which can extend up to 370 km from shore.

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Adopted internationally last year, the agreement includes provisions to ban destructive fishing practices and combat pollution. It was finalized in March 2023 and will be open for signature for two years, starting from September 2023. The treaty will take effect 120 days after it receives its 60th ratification.

Currently, around 100 countries have signed the agreement, with eight having ratified it so far. Key features of the treaty include a prohibition on sovereign claims over marine resources on the high seas and a commitment to equitable sharing of benefits derived from these resources.

India’s participation in the treaty was approved by the Cabinet in July. Minister of State for Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh emphasized the nation’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable development, stating that the treaty will enhance India’s strategic presence beyond its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and bolster marine conservation efforts.