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Biosphere Reserves in India: Biosphere reserves are unique regions identified by UNESCO for their exceptional natural features and biological diversity. These areas are crucial for protecting various plant and animal species while promoting sustainable use of natural resources. Biosphere reserves aim to harmonize the conservation of biodiversity with the economic, social, and cultural development of local communities. Managed by national governments, these reserves demonstrate how people and nature can coexist peacefully.
Biosphere Reserves in India 2024 History
In 1971, two years after UNESCO started the MAB-Man and Biosphere program, they created a list of biosphere reserves. These reserves connect with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The main goal of biosphere reserves is to protect natural areas while also supporting social, economic, and cultural growth in local communities. Unlike other protected areas, there are no specific laws governing biosphere reserves. The first ones appeared in 1979. Now, there are 701 biosphere reserves in 124 countries, including 21 that cross national borders, demonstrating international collaboration in conservation.
Criteria for Designation of Biosphere Reserve?
The criteria for designating a biosphere reserve include several key factors.
- Firstly, the area must encompass representative ecosystems that are significant for biodiversity conservation.
- Secondly, it should facilitate research, monitoring, and education related to local ecosystems and their sustainable management.
- Thirdly, there must be a demonstration of efforts to promote sustainable development through partnerships with local communities and stakeholders.
- Lastly, biosphere reserves should support cultural heritage preservation and promote environmental awareness among the public. These criteria ensure that biosphere reserves serve as models for balancing conservation with sustainable human activities.
Three Main Zones of Biosphere Reserve
Biosphere reserves typically consist of three main zones:
- Core Zone
Strictly protected area where biodiversity is conserved without human interference.
Acts as a reference area for scientific research and monitoring. - Buffer Zone
Surrounding the core zone, the buffer zone permits controlled human activities within defined limits.
Activities such as education, research, tourism, and sustainable resource use are permitted. - Transition Zone
Outermost part where sustainable development is encouraged.
Communities live and work here, integrating conservation with local economic and cultural activities.
List of Biosphere Reserves in India with their Location
| Name of Biosphere | Year of Notification | Location |
| Agasthyamalai | 2001 | Kerala |
| Achanakamar – Amarkantak | 2005 | Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh |
| Cold Desert | 2009 | Himachal Pradesh |
| Dehang-Dibang | 1998 | Arunachal Pradesh |
| Dibru-Saikhowa | 1997 | Assam |
| Great Nicobar | 1989 | Andaman & Nicobar Islands |
| Gulf of Mannar | 1989 | Tamil Nadu |
| Khangchendzonga | 2000 | Sikkim |
| Kachchh | 2008 | Gujarat |
| Manas | 1989 | Assam |
| Nanda Devi | 1988 | Uttarakhand |
| Nilgiri | 1986 | Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka |
| Nokrek | 1988 | Meghalaya |
| Pachmarhi | 1999 | Madhya Pradesh |
| Panna | 2011 | Madhya Pradesh |
| Simlipal | 1994 | Odisha |
| Sunderbans | 1989 | West Bengal |
| Seshachalam Hills | 2010 | Andhra Pradesh |
List of UNESCO Protected Biosphere Reserves
| Year | Name | States |
| 2000 | Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve | Tamil Nadu |
| 2001 | Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve | Tamil Nadu |
| 2001 | Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve | West Bengal |
| 2004 | Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve | Uttarakhand |
| 2009 | Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve | Madhya Pradesh |
| 2009 | Nokrek Biosphere Reserve | Meghalaya |
| 2009 | Simlipal Biosphere Reserve | Odisha |
| 2012 | Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve | Chhattisgarh |
| 2013 | Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve | Great Nicobar |
| 2016 | Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve | Kerala and Tamil Nadu |
| 2018 | Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve | Part of North and West Sikkim districts |
| 2020 | Panna Biosphere Reserve | Madhya Pradesh |
Biosphere Conservation in India
Biosphere conservation in India focuses on protecting diverse ecosystems and species while promoting sustainable development. Through biosphere reserves designated by UNESCO, India strives to balance environmental preservation with economic and social needs. These reserves serve as crucial zones for scientific research, education, and sustainable resource management. By integrating local communities into conservation efforts, India aims to safeguard its natural heritage for future generations, emphasizing harmony between human activities and ecological integrity.
Functions and Significance of Biosphere Reserves in India (BRII)
Functions
- Biodiversity Conservation: Preserve diverse species, ecosystems, and genetic resources.
- Ecological Research: Serve as living laboratories for environmental and ecological studies.
- Sustainable Development: Promote practices that balance conservation with socio-economic growth.
- Climate Change Mitigation: Aid in understanding and responding to climate change impacts.
- Cultural Preservation: Protect and promote traditional knowledge and cultural heritage of local communities.
- Education and Awareness: Provide platforms for environmental education and public awareness initiatives.
- Eco-tourism: Support eco-friendly tourism that enhances conservation efforts and benefits local economies.
Significance
- Environmental Protection: Essential for maintaining ecological balance and protecting natural habitats.
- Resource Management: Crucial for sustainable management of natural resources.
- Policy Development: Inform and influence environmental policies and regulations.
- Global Recognition: Part of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme, enhancing international cooperation.
- UPSC Relevance: Critical topic for UPSC aspirants, highlighting the integration of environmental conservation with administrative planning and development.
Biosphere Reserves in India UPSC
The government of Odisha has proposed the Mahendragiri Hill Complex as a Biosphere Reserve. If approved, it will join the Simlipal Biosphere Reserve as the second biosphere reserve in Odisha. The global distribution of biosphere reserves is as follows:
- 85 sites in 31 African countries
- 33 sites in 12 Arab nations
- 157 sites in 24 countries across Asia and the Pacific
- There are 302 biosphere reserve sites distributed across 38 countries in Europe and North America.
- Additionally, there are 130 sites spread across 21 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean region.
Additionally, the Panna Biosphere Reserve has been internationally recognized as a UNESCO Protected Biosphere Reserve. The Indian Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve was included in this prestigious list in 2018, with the status officially granted in 2020.
Biosphere Reserves in India FAQs
How many biosphere reserves are in India 2024?
As of 2024, India has 18 Biosphere Reserves spread across various states and union territories, each designated to protect and conserve unique ecosystems and biodiversity.
What is the largest Biosphere Reserve in India?
The Gulf of Kachchh in Gujarat is recognized as India's largest biosphere reserve.
Which is the first Biosphere reserve in India (BRI)?
The first Biosphere Reserve in India is the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, established in the Nilgiri Hills, spanning across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala.
Which is the 17th biosphere reserves in India?
The 17th Biosphere Reserve established in India is the Seshachalam Hills, designated in 2010 in Andhra Pradesh, encompassing regions within the Chittoor and Kadapa districts. The first biosphere reserve in India was established in the Nilgiri Hills.
Which is the newest Biosphere Reserve in India?
The newest Biosphere Reserve in India is the Panna Biosphere Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. It recently received the designation of a UNESCO Protected Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its ecological significance and conservation efforts.
Which is the oldest Biosphere Reserve in India?
The oldest Biosphere Reserve in India is the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, established in the year 1986. It spans an area of 5,520 square kilometers across the states of Tamil Nadu (2,537.6 km²), Karnataka (1,527.4 km²), and Kerala (1,455.4 km²).
Which is the smallest Biosphere Reserve in India?
The smallest Biosphere Reserve in India is Dibru-Saikhowa, located in the state of Assam.
