All the countries in the Hindu Kush-Himalayas are party to the CBD. However, only a few of them have ABS policies and laws, and these are at different stages of implementation. Central to the delay is a lack of awareness and understanding of ABS and the key components of an effective ABS regime.

The financial mechanism of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), operated by the GEF, has assisted eligible countries to implement their commitments for achieving the objectives of this unique international legal instrument. Considering that most of the biological diversity is located in developing countries, the importance of the GEF to the CBD remains fundamental. This publication highlights the achievements of the GEF since its inception, summarizes its current investment strategy, and begins to map the way forward for the next phase of the GEF.

This report starts with a brief account of different types of IPRs, including a brief overview of the WTO TRIPs agreement. It focuses on biodiversity and relationship with the IPR regime.

This handbook seeks to provide a comprehensive and cohesive perspective on the major International Environmental Agreements to which India is a party, along with India’s position and role in impleme