In another significant step toward sustainable utilization of Bhutan’s rich biodiversity, a Scoping Agreement has been signed between TERRA Himalaya Pvt. Limited, a Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) company and the National Biodiversity Centre (NBC), Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MoAL). The agreement marks the beginning of a five-year collaboration focused on research and commercial development of three high-value Bhutanese genetic resources: Swertia chirayita, Inula racemosa, and Rhoda crenulata known for their medicinal properties and traditional uses.
Under this partnership, TERRA Himalaya will conduct extensive research and development (R&D) to explore the potential of these medicinal plants in the pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical, and nutraceutical industries. The initiative will be carried out in full compliance with Bhutan’s Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) Framework, ensuring that the utilization of genetic resources is equitable, transparent, and beneficial to all stakeholders, including local communities.
The collaboration is expected to contribute to Bhutan’s bioeconomy, support conservation efforts, and generate livelihood opportunities for local communities through sustainable resource management and value addition.
