Digital portal launched for e-issuance certificates of origin for cultivated medicinal plants

New Delhi: In a significant step towards streamlining Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) compliance, the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), has developed and operationalised a dedicated digital portal for the electronic issuance of Certificates of Origin for cultivated medicinal plants.

The portal, accessible at https://absefiling.nbaindia.in/, functions as a single-window, end-to-end online system that enables stakeholders to apply for and obtain Certificates of Origin electronically.

These certificates are required by entities seeking exemptions from ABS obligations under the Biological Diversity framework, particularly for cultivated medicinal plant resources.

The initiative follows the enactment of the Biological Diversity (Amendment) Act, 2023, which was passed by the Lok Sabha on 25 July 2023 and the Rajya Sabha on 1 August 2023.

To give effect to the amended legislation, the MoEFCC notified the Biological Diversity Rules in 2024 and 2025, laying down updated procedures and compliance mechanisms.

According to the Ministry, the amended Rules are aimed at simplifying processes and addressing procedural requirements across a wide range of stakeholders, including the AYUSH sector, seed sector, research institutions, and industry players.

A key feature of the new framework is the provision for electronic generation of Certificates of Origin through a designated digital platform, reducing paperwork and enhancing transparency.

Officials said the portal is expected to improve ease of doing business while ensuring effective implementation of biodiversity conservation and benefit-sharing objectives.

By digitising the certification process, the NBA aims to provide faster approvals, better tracking of applications, and improved coordination among regulatory authorities and stakeholders.

The move is seen as part of the government’s broader push towards digital governance and regulatory reform in the environmental and biodiversity sectors.