Biosphere Reserves in India 2024, Map, Facts: Complete Details

Here is the updated list of Biosphere Reserves in India, an integral part of the Protected Areas of India. At present, India has 18 biosphere reserves. The latest addition is the Panna Biosphere Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. In 2020, Panna National Park was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve under the MAB programme.

Here is the list of 18 Biosphere Reserves in India with the year of recognition and their associated states.

List of 18 Biosphere reserves in India

Out of the 18 Biosphere Reserves, 12 are listed under the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. Here is the list:

Biosphere Reserves in India under UNESCO MAB Programme

18 Biosphere Reserves in India MAP

What is the UNESCO MAB Programme?

• Launched by UNESCO in 1971, the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme is an intergovernmental scientific initiative.

• Primary Goal: Establish a scientific foundation for enhancing the relationship between people and their environments.

• Focus Areas:
  • Combines natural and social sciences, economics, and education.
  • Aims to improve human livelihoods while protecting natural and managed ecosystems.

• World Network of Biosphere Reserves:
  • A dynamic, interactive network fostering harmony between people and nature.
  • Encourages participatory dialogue, knowledge sharing, poverty reduction, cultural respect, and sustainable development.

• Acts as a key international tool for developing and implementing sustainable development approaches across various contexts.

Why Does the MAB Programme Matter?

• Holistic Approach: Combines science, economics, and education to create practical, sustainable solutions.
• Global Toolbox: Acts as a universal resource for improving the relationship between people and nature.
• Step-by-Step Progress: Focuses on enhancing the world, one biosphere at a time.

Now that you’ve got the basic and important list of Biosphere Reserves, let’s explore further. If you’re curious about detailed insights, crucial facts, and the significance of each Biosphere Reserve, keep reading! Together, we’ll uncover everything you need to know about Biosphere Reserves in India.ndia.

What is a Biosphere?

• The biosphere is a thin layer on Earth’s surface that:
  • Extends from a few kilometers into the atmosphere to the deep-sea vents in the ocean.

• It’s a global ecosystem made up of:
  • Living organisms (biota).
  • Nonliving factors like air, water, and soil that provide energy and nutrients.

• Known as the “zone of life”, where living beings interact with their environment.

• The biosphere is divided into regions called biomes:
  • Biomes are the largest of the five organizational levels in the ecosystem hierarchy.

Classification of Biomes

Scientists categorize biomes into five primary types, each with unique characteristics and ecosystems:

1. Aquatic Biome

The aquatic biome includes all water bodies on Earth, such as oceans, lakes, rivers, and wetlands. It is divided into two main types:

• Marine Biome: Found in saltwater environments (oceans and seas), home to diverse marine life like fish, whales, and coral reefs.

• Freshwater Biome: Found in freshwater environments (lakes, rivers, and ponds), supporting species like fish, amphibians, and waterfowl.

2. Desert Biome

• Deserts are dry, arid regions with little rainfall. They can be hot (like the Sahara) or cold (like the Gobi). Adapted plants (such as cacti) and animals (like camels) thrive here.

3. Forest Biome

Forests cover large areas and are home to various trees, plants, and animals. There are three main types:

• Tropical Rainforest: Found near the equator, with lush vegetation and high biodiversity.
• Temperate Forest: Found in moderate climates, with deciduous trees (like oak and maple).
• Coniferous Forest (Taiga): Dominated by evergreen trees (like pine and spruce) and found in colder regions.

4. Grassland Biome

Grasslands have vast stretches of grasses and few trees. They’re divided into:

• Prairies: Found in North America, with tall grasses.
• Savannas: Found in Africa, with scattered trees and grasses. Home to animals like zebras and giraffes.

5. Tundra Biome

Tundras are cold, treeless regions near the Arctic Circle. The ground is frozen (permafrost), and hardy plants (like mosses and lichens) survive here.

What are Biosphere Reserves?

Biosphere Reserves are special regions set aside to conserve all forms of life, along with their natural habitats and ecosystems. These reserves aim to protect biodiversity while promoting sustainable living for local communities, including tribal groups.

Key Features of Biosphere Reserves

• Conservation: They protect a wide range of plant and animal species, ensuring their survival and promoting biodiversity.

• Sustainable Development: These reserves encourage sustainable practices that allow people to live in harmony with nature.

• Cultural Preservation: They help preserve traditional ways of life for indigenous and tribal communities living in these areas.

Zones of a Biosphere Reserve

Biosphere Reserves are divided into three main zones:

• Core Zone: This is the most protected area where human activities are highly restricted to minimize impact on the ecosystem.

• Buffer Zone: Surrounding the core zone, this area allows for activities like research, education, and eco-friendly tourism.

• Transition Zone: This outermost zone permits sustainable economic activities like agriculture and settlement, promoting cooperation between local communities and conservation efforts.

Biosphere Reserves play a crucial role in conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development. They provide a model for balancing human needs with environmental protection, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

Benefits of Biosphere Reserves

Biosphere reserves provide several benefits, especially in promoting sustainable development and biodiversity conservation. Let’s look at the key advantages:

Sustainable Development

• Resource Management: Biosphere reserves promote the wise use of natural resources, ensuring long-term sustainability. They balance conservation with human activities, fostering economic growth without harming the environment.

Biodiversity Protection

• Conservation Zones: These reserves serve as living laboratories for studying ecosystems and species. They help address land use challenges, protect endangered species, and maintain ecological balance.

Research Opportunities

• Academic and Government Studies: Biosphere reserves offer platforms for in-depth research. Scientists can study local environmental issues, monitor changes, and develop solutions to global challenges.

Economic Revitalization

• Local Economies: By encouraging diverse local economies, biosphere reserves boost rural development. Sustainable tourism, traditional crafts, and eco-friendly practices create livelihood opportunities.

Community Well-Being

• Improved Livelihoods: The well-being of local communities, including tribal populations, improves through sustainable practices. These reserves enhance livelihoods, cultural preservation, and social cohesion.

Additional Benefits

• Environmental Education: Biosphere reserves serve as centers for environmental education, teaching people about conservation and sustainable living.

• Climate Change Mitigation: These areas help mitigate climate change by protecting forests and other ecosystems that absorb carbon dioxide.

• Cultural Preservation: Many biosphere reserves help preserve traditional cultures and practices, maintaining the heritage of local communities.

Biosphere reserves are crucial for maintaining the health of our planet and supporting sustainable living. By protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable development, they ensure a better future for all.

Three Functions of Biosphere Reserves

• Conservation of Biodiversity:
  • Protects landscapes, ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity.
  • Helps maintain the ecological balance by preserving natural habitats.

• Sustainable Development:
  • Encourages economic and human development that respects nature.
  • Focuses on social, cultural, and ecological sustainability for long-term well-being.

• Logistical Support:
  • Offers a platform for research, education, monitoring, and information exchange.
  • Helps solve conservation and development challenges at local, national, and global levels.

Who Introduced the Designation of ‘Biosphere Reserve’?

• The designation of ‘Biosphere Reserve’ was introduced by UNESCO.
• It aims to reduce conflict between development and conservation in natural areas.
• The initiative is part of the UNESCO Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme, launched in 1971.
• Biosphere reserves are managed under the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

Who Nominates an Area as a Biosphere Reserve?

• In India, the State Government usually initiates the nomination of an area as a Biosphere Reserve.
• The proposal is then sent to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) for evaluation.
• After meeting the required criteria and passing a thorough assessment, the MoEFCC forwards the proposal to UNESCO for inclusion in the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme.
• The nominated area remains under the sovereign jurisdiction of the states where it is located.

Structure of a Biosphere Reserve

Biosphere Reserves are organized into three interrelated zones to promote both biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. Here’s a look at each zone:

1. Core Area

• Strictly Protected Zone: This zone is strictly protected to conserve landscapes, ecosystems, species, and genetic variation.

• Purpose: It focuses on preserving natural habitats and maintaining biodiversity without any human interference.

• Example Activities: Protection of endangered species, conservation of pristine ecosystems.

2. Buffer Zone

• Limited Restrictions: Compared to the Core Area, the Buffer Zone has fewer restrictions.

• Location: It surrounds the Core Area.

• Purpose: This zone is used for scientific research, environmental monitoring, and educational activities.

• Example Activities: Research studies, ecological monitoring, educational programs.

3. Transition Zone (Manipulation Zone)

• Human Activities Allowed: Known as the Manipulation Zone, this area allows for various human activities.

• Purpose: It aims to balance conservation with sustainable use of resources by local communities.

• Example Activities: Human settlements, agriculture, forestry, sustainable tourism, and small-scale industries.

Benefits of Zoning in Biosphere Reserves

• Conservation: The Core Area ensures the protection of biodiversity without human impact.

• Sustainability: The Buffer and Transition Zones promote sustainable use of resources while supporting research and community development.

• Education and Awareness: These zones help educate people about the importance of conservation and sustainable living.

Number of Biosphere Reserves: Current Status

• Total Biosphere Reserves in India:
  • India currently has 18 Biosphere Reserves.

• World Network of Biosphere Reserves:
  • Out of the 18, 12 Biosphere Reserves are part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves under the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme.

• Latest Biosphere Reserve:
  • The Panna National Park in Madhya Pradesh is India’s most recent Biosphere Reserve.
  • It was designated as a World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2020, based on the UNESCO MAB programme.
  • Located in the Panna and Chhatarpur districts of Madhya Pradesh.

Biosphere Reserves in the World

• There are currently 738 biosphere reserves in 134 countries, including 22 transboundary sites that belong to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

• Spain has the highest number of biosphere reserves in the world (52). It is followed by the United States (47) Mexico (42) and China (33)

State-wise Biosphere Reserves in India

Tamil Nadu

• Tamil Nadu has 3 Biosphere Reserves.

• 2 of the 3 Biosphere Reserves are shared by Kerala and Karnataka.

The three Biosphere Reserves are:

Kerala

• Kerala has two Biosphere Reserves:
  • Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve
  • Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve

• Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve:
  • India’s largest protected forest area, covering Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala.
  • Located in the Nilgiri Mountains in the Western Ghats of South India.

• Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve:
  • Became part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2016.

Odisha

• Simlipal National Park is Odisha’s only Biosphere Reserve.

• It is both a national park and a tiger reserve located in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha.

Madhya Pradesh

• Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve (1999)

• Panna Biosphere Reserve (2011):
  • Located in the Panna and Chhatarpur districts of Madhya Pradesh.
  • Panna National Park was declared the 22nd Tiger Reserve of India in 1994, and the fifth Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh.

• Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve (2005):
  • Shared between Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Chhattisgarh

• Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve (2005):
  • Shared between Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
  • Located in the Western Himalayas, spanning across both states.
  • Covers an area of 383,551 hectares (3,835.51 km²).

• Topography:
  • Features lowland rice fields, wheat fields, and hills of the Maikal Range of the Satpuras.
  • The reserve is divided into core, buffer, and transition zones.

• Distribution of the Reserve:
  • 68.1% of the reserve lies in the Bilaspur district in Chhattisgarh.
  • 16.20% of the reserve is in the Anuppur district of Madhya Pradesh.
  • 15.70% of the reserve is in the Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh.

• Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary:
  • The protected area of the Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Bilaspur district within the Biosphere Reserve.

West Bengal

• Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve (1989):
  • Sunderban is the world’s largest delta and mangrove forest, located in West Bengal, India.

• Geographical Location:
  • Bordered by the Muriganga river to the west and Harinbhahga and Raimangal rivers to the east.
  • Major rivers flowing through this ecosystem include Saptamukhi, Thakuran, Matla, and Goasaba.

• Rich Biodiversity:
  • The Sundarbans is known for its unique and rich biodiversity, which includes a variety of wildlife and plant species.

Gujarat

• Great Rann of Kutch Biosphere Reserve (2008):
  • Located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, India.

• Geographical Features:
  • Encompasses the vast salt marsh known as the Great Rann of Kutch.
  • Includes the adjacent desert and semi-arid ecosystems.

• Unique Ecosystem:
  • Known for its distinctive landscape and diverse wildlife adapted to arid conditions.

Himachal Pradesh

• Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve (2009):
  • Located in the Western Himalayas within Himachal Pradesh, North India, adjacent to the Himalayan Mountains.
  • Established as a biosphere reserve in August 2009 to conserve biodiversity through sustainable use of terrestrial and coastal ecosystems.

• Area and Features:
  • Covers an area of 7,770 square kilometers.
  • Includes Chandra Taal, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Pin Valley National Park, and Sarchu.

• Geographical Characteristics:
  • Known for its cold desert biome, with high altitudes ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 meters.
  • The region’s desert status is due to its leeward position in the Himalayas.

• Biodiversity:
  • Houses over 500 plant species, including 118 medicinal plants.
  • Wildlife includes endangered species like the snow leopard, Tibetan antelope, and Himalayan wolf, along with other mammals, birds, and reptiles adapted to the harsh climate.

Assam

• Manas Biosphere Reserve (1989):
  • Manas is a national park (1990), UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site (1985), Project Tiger Reserve (1973-74), biosphere reserve (1989), and elephant reserve in Assam, India.
  • Famous for its wild water buffalo population and rich biodiversity.

• Dibru-Saikhowa Biosphere Reserve (1997):
  • Located in Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam.
  • Designated as a Biosphere Reserve in July 1997.
  • Known for its unique ecosystem that combines both terrestrial and aquatic life.

Khangchendzonga National Park (2000) – Sikkim

• Located in Sikkim, bordering Nepal to the west and Tibet (China) to the northwest.

• The biosphere reserve encompasses one of the highest ecosystems globally, ranging from 1,220 to 8,586 meters above sea level.

• Recognized as one of the world’s 34 biodiversity hotspots, hosting vast natural forests with high species diversity and significant endemism.

• The primary economic activities include agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, fishery, dairy, and poultry farming, supporting the livelihoods of local communities.

• Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2016.

• India’s first “Mixed World Heritage” site (both Natural and Cultural).

Uttarakhand

Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (1988)

• Located around the Nanda Devi hilltop in Chamoli Garhwal district, Uttarakhand.

• Comprises Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks, both designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Famous for its endemic alpine flowers and stunning natural beauty, making it a significant part of the biosphere reserve.

• The parks form a transition zone between the Zanskar and Great Himalaya mountain ranges, enhancing their ecological significance.

• Nanda Devi National Park was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988.

• Expanded and renamed Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Park in 2005.

Meghalaya

Nokrek Biosphere Reserve (1988)

• Located in the northeast region of India, specifically on the Tura Range, part of the Meghalaya Plateau.

• The Nokrek peak is the highest in the Garo hills, reaching an altitude of 1,412 meters.

• Predominantly mountainous, with key rivers and streams forming a perennial catchment system.

• Major water bodies include the Ganol, Dareng, and Simsang rivers. The Simsang is the longest and largest, originating from the northern part of the reserve.

• Dareng river flows from the southern peaks, while Ganol flows westward into the Brahmaputra River, providing water to many towns.

• Added to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserves list in May 2009.

Andhra Pradesh

Seshachalam Hills Biosphere Reserve (2010)

• Located in the southeastern part of India, in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh.
• Designated as a Biosphere Reserve in 2010.

• Known for large reserves of red sandalwood, which is used in medicines, soaps, spiritual rituals, and more.

• The Tirupati Hindu pilgrimage town is located in the hills.

• Home to the famous Sri Venkateswara Swamy Vari Mandir temple, located in Tirumala, Tirupati district.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve (1989)

• Located on Great Nicobar Island, covering a significant portion of the island.

• Integrates two Indian National Parks:
  • Campbell Bay National Park (north)
  • Galathea National Park (southern interior).

• Included in UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Programme in 2013.

• Encompasses the territories and traditional lands of the Nicobarese and Shompen indigenous tribes.

Arunachal Pradesh

Dihang – Dibang Biosphere Reserve (1998)

• Spans across three districts: Dibang Valley, Upper Siang, and West Siang.

• Includes Mauling National Park and Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, either wholly or partially.

• Located in the Eastern Himalayas and Mishmi Hills, with elevations exceeding 5,000 meters (16,000 feet) above sea level.

• Notable wildlife includes two newly discovered flying squirrels:
  • Mechuka giant flying squirrel (Petaurista mechukaensis)
  • Mishmi Hills giant flying squirrel (Petaurista mishmiensis).

List of Key Fauna of Biosphere Reserves in India

Facts about the Biosphere Reserves of India

• Largest Biosphere Reserve of India: Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat.

• Smallest Biosphere Reserve of India: Dibru-Saikhowa, Assam.

• First Biosphere Reserve of India: Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.

• Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve spans across: Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala.

• Biosphere Reserves in India are declared by: State or Central Government.

• The Man and Biosphere Programme (MAB) was launched by UNESCO in 1971.

• Total number of biosphere reserves in India: 18.

• Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve was designated in: 1986.

• Latest Biosphere Reserve of India: Panna Biosphere Reserve, Madhya Pradesh.

• Panna Biosphere Reserve was designated as a Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO MAB in: 2020.

• Marine Biosphere Reserve in India: Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.

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