EnvironmentSource: Press Information Bureau
Bhavasagara Referral Centre Designated as India’s National Repository for Deep-Sea Fauna
Tuesday, 31 March 2026
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The Centre for Marine Living Resources & Ecology (CMLRE) has been designated as India’s National Repository for Deep-Sea Fauna, marking a pivotal step in marine conservation and blue economy goals. This is crucial for UPSC GS Paper 3, focusing on environmental conservation and biodiversity. Last Updated: 31-03-2026
Key Facts About Bhavasagara Referral Centre
- The CMLRE is located in Kochi, Kerala.
- Designated as the National Repository under Section 39 of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
- Houses over 3,500 taxonomically identified and geo-referenced voucher specimens.
- Supports India's Blue Economy goals by promoting sustainable marine resource management.
- Maintains secure custody of biological samples and associated DNA sequences.
- Operates under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
- Aligned with the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030).
India's Marine Biodiversity Conservation
The designation of CMLRE as a National Repository is a strategic move to bolster India's marine biodiversity conservation efforts. It aligns with national economic and environmental goals, enhancing research capabilities and fostering international collaboration. This initiative supports India’s commitment to sustainable development and strengthens its position in global marine conservation rankings.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 3: Environmental conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable development.
- Prelims: Questions on the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, and the role of CMLRE.
- Mains: Analytical themes on marine conservation strategies and blue economy.
- Essay Paper: Topics on environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation.
FAQ Section
- What is the Bhavasagara Referral Centre? The Bhavasagara Referral Centre, under CMLRE, is designated as the National Repository for Deep-Sea Fauna, focusing on the preservation and study of marine biodiversity.
- Why is this designation important? It plays a crucial role in preserving India's marine biological heritage and supports the nation's blue economy goals by promoting sustainable resource management.
- What are the key features of CMLRE's designation? Key features include maintaining custody of biological samples, supporting research, and enhancing capacity in deep-sea taxonomy.
Detailed Coverage
- CMLRE located in Kochi, Kerala, designated as National Repository.
- Recognition conferred by MoEFCC under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
- Plays a pivotal role in preservation and documentation of deep-sea biological heritage.
- Supports Blue Economy and sustainable marine resource management.
- Holds over 3,500 taxonomically identified and geo-referenced specimens.
- Collection includes invertebrates and vertebrates.
- Responsibilities include secure custody of biological samples and DNA sequences.
- Acts as custodian for new deep-sea species discovered in Indian waters.
- Focuses on capacity building in deep-sea taxonomy.
- Operates under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
- Enhances exploration, management, and conservation of marine resources.
- Dr. M. Ravichandran emphasizes strategic importance for marine biodiversity.
- Centralizes custody of deep-sea specimens and genetic data.
- Encourages collaboration among researchers and stakeholders.
- Contributes to India’s deep-sea research capabilities.
- Posted on 30 March 2026 by PIB Delhi.
Environment