Potential of OECMs in Achieving India’s Commitments towards CBD Target 3

Abstract

Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) have been acknowledged globally as key strategy for area-based biodiversity conservation. Eight years of deliberation within the Convention on Biological Diversity resulted in an agreed definition and criteria. Countries across the globe are working to realize the achievement of “30 by 30” set by the Target 3 of the Convention of Biological Diversity and OECMs are seen as a key opportunity for success. India, as a signatory of CBD, has been working on OECMs since the 2018 CBD decision. The vast forest resource of India, covers a range of geographical zones from alpine meadows (Himalayas) to tropical rain forests (Western Ghats) to tropical arid forest (Thar Desert). However, there are still areas outside the legally defined forest and protected zones which have potential to be OECMs. The inclusion of such areas along with the extant forest cover can aid in achieving the target 3. There are still some uncertain areas for India, notably the supporting legal framework and the site-level management. This study examines the present state of India’s effort to identify potential OECMs, including a detailed understanding of the legislative protection provided by India to support OECMs.