Overview According to the latest data from the ABS Clearing‑House , India has issued 3,561 Internationally Recognized Certificates of Compliance (IRCCs) under the Nagoya Protocol . This accounts for **56 %** of the global total of 6,311 certificates, making India the clear leader. Key Developments India tops the list with 3,561 IRCCs; the next highest country, France, has issued 964. Only 34 of the 142 countries registered on the ABS Clearing‑House have issued any IRCCs. The achievement reflects robust implementation of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002 through the National Biodiversity Authority , State Biodiversity Boards and local Biodiversity Management Committees. IRCCs certify that Prior Informed Consent and Mutually Agreed Terms have been secured. Important Facts Global IRCC count: 6,311 (as of 2026). India’s share: 3,561 (56 %). Top five countries after India: France (964), Spain (320), Argentina (257), Panama (156), Kenya (144). IRCCs are uploaded to the ABS Clearing‑House, creating a public record of access and benefit‑sharing transactions. UPSC Relevance The data illustrates India’s proactive role in global biodiversity governance . Aspirants should link this to: India’s commitments under the CBD and the Nagoya Protocol. Implementation mechanisms of the Biological Diversity Act and the institutional architecture (NBA, State Boards, Biodiversity Management Committees). Implications for research, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical sectors, where access to genetic resources is critical. India’s positioning in international negotiations on climate change and sustainable development. Way Forward Strengthen capacity of State Biodiversity Boards to process applications faster. Enhance digital integration between the NBA and the ABS Clearing‑House for real‑time tracking. Promote awareness among researchers and industry about the need for IRCCs to avoid legal disputes. Leverage the strong IRCC record to negotiate better benefit‑sharing terms in bilateral agreements.