MoTA Signs MoU with CSIR-NBRI for Conservation of RET Medicinal Plant Species

Key facts

• The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) signed a three-year MoU with the CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (CSIR-NBRI) on July 30, 2025, to advance tribal welfare and conserve tribal bioresources.
• The partnership focuses on the conservation of Rare, Endangered, and Threatened (RET) medicinal plant species using advanced methods such as tissue culture facilities and specialised seed banks.
• Local tribal youth will receive hands-on capacity building and technical training in propagation and conservation techniques to ensure community-managed sustainability.
• All field assessments and research activities require Prior Informed Consent (PIC) of local Gram Sabhas and tribal communities, in compliance with the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
• Intellectual property generated from the collaboration will be jointly owned by MoTA and CSIR-NBRI, held in trust for or equitably shared with the contributing tribal communities.
• Financial benefits from the collaboration will be channelled through National or State Biodiversity Funds and dedicated welfare schemes of MoTA.