The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) has constituted an Expert Committee on Invasive Alien Species to address the growing ecological and socio-economic risks posed by such species across the country. The decision follows a suo motu proceeding by the National Green Tribunal, which underscored the serious threats of invasive alien species to native biodiversity, key ecosystems, agriculture, food security, and human and wildlife health.

 

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said that the Committee has been mandated to prepare a consolidated national list of invasive alien species based on State-wise inputs. It added that the Committee will identify and prioritise high-risk species and recommend science-based management strategies, ecological restoration measures, and national-level guidelines for their prevention, control, and eradication. The Committee will also document and disseminate best practices, identify critical knowledge gaps, and propose research and data generation programmes to strengthen long-term management and policy responses.

 

The Ministry further said that the Committee will function for a period of two years and will contribute in safeguarding the country’s biodiversity, enhancing ecosystem resilience, and supporting national and global biodiversity commitments.