It was developed to implement the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, ensuring the safe handling, transfer, and use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the country. It provides a comprehensive institutional, legal, and procedural structure to regulate biotechnology activities with potential risks to biodiversity, human, animal, and environmental health. The NBF outlines the roles and responsibilities of key institutions, with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) as the national focal point. It establishes the National 15 Committee on Biosafety (NCB) as the apex decision-making body, supported by technical advisory groups and institutional biosafety committees at different levels. The framework defines processes for risk assessment, risk management, and decision-making for activities involving GMOs, including research, contained use, field trials, and commercial release. It emphasizes a precautionary principle with a comparative approach, stakeholder consultation, public awareness, and capacity building. Legal and regulatory measures recommended by the NBF include updating existing laws and formulating new legislation to provide enforceable biosafety governance. The framework also establishes inter-ministerial coordination in monitoring, compliance, and enforcement mechanisms to manage biosafety risks effectively. Overall, the NBF aims to balance the benefits of biotechnology development with the protection of biodiversity and public health, aligning national efforts with international biosafety obligations.