Thu Jun 19 00:00:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

This article from The Hindu discusses the ongoing threat of invasive alien species in India. It highlights the history of such introductions, from the giant African snail in the 19th century to more recent cases like the Parthenium grass introduced with imported wheat. The article emphasizes the role of increased global trade in facilitating the spread of these species, both deliberately (for biocontrol) and accidentally (through ballast water and contaminated goods). It cites a 2022 study indicating that India has lost $127.3 billion to invasive species over the past 60 years, although this likely underestimates the true cost due to underreporting. The authors advocate for stricter biosecurity measures, real-time species tracking, improved collaboration between government and researchers, and mandatory post-trade biological impact assessments to mitigate the threat. They warn that the consequences of current introductions may not be fully realized for decades and urge a “One Biosecurity” framework to protect India’s biodiversity.

**News Article:**

**Invasive Species Costing India Billions: Experts Call for Stronger Biosecurity Measures**

**New Delhi, June 19, 2025** – A growing influx of invasive alien species is posing a significant economic and ecological threat to India, according to a report published in The Hindu today. The article highlights the detrimental impact of these species, which have cost India an estimated $127.3 billion over the past 60 years.

The article traces the history of invasive species in India, from the introduction of the giant African snail in the 19th century to the proliferation of Parthenium grass following contaminated wheat imports in the 1950s. Experts point to increased global trade as a major driver of this problem, with species being transported unintentionally through ballast water, contaminated goods, and even deliberate introductions gone awry.

“The surge in global trade has created a perfect storm for invasive species,” said Priya Ranganathan, a doctoral student at ATREE and co-author of the report. “With new trade agreements and previously unlinked nations now doing business together, the risk of introducing new and potentially devastating species has only increased.”

The report calls for immediate and decisive action to strengthen India’s biosecurity measures. Recommendations include stricter enforcement at ports, the development of real-time species tracking systems, and increased collaboration between government departments and researchers. The authors also advocate for mandatory post-trade biological impact assessments to identify and contain potential threats before they can spread.

“We need a ‘One Biosecurity’ framework to protect India’s biodiversity and economy,” added Nobinraja M., a post-doctoral fellow at ATREE. “The consequences of inaction could be dire, with the full impact of today’s introductions not being felt for decades.”

The Hindu’s report serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by invasive species and the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard India’s natural resources and economic prosperity.

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