Biosphere reserves are areas of terrestrial and coastal ecosystems that are recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as having exceptional ecological value and significance. These areas are meant to promote sustainable development while conserving biological diversity and cultural heritage. Here are 18 Biosphere Reserves of India.
Biosphere reserves are designated to fulfill three interconnected functions: conservation, development, and logistic support.
Name | Year | State | Area (Sq km) |
Nilgiri Biosphere reserve | 1986 | Tamil Nadu Kerala and Karnataka | 5620 |
Nokrek | 1988 | Meghalaya | 820 |
Nanda Devi National Park and Biosphere reserve | 1988 | UttaraKhand | 5860 |
Manas | 1989 | Assam | 2837 |
Gulf Of Mannar | 1989 | Tamil Nadu | 10500 |
Sunderbans | 1989 | West Bengal | 9630 |
Great Nicobar Biosphere reserve | 1989 | Andaman and Nicobar Islands | 885 |
Simlipal | 1994 | Odisha | 4374 |
Dibru Saikhowa | 1997 | Assam | 765 |
Dihang Dibang | 1998 | Arunachal Pradesh | 5112 |
Pachmarhi | 1999 | Madhya Pradesh | 4981.72 |
Kanchenjunga | 2000 | Sikkim | 2620 |
Agasthyamalai reserve | 2001 | Kerala , Tamil Nadu | 1828 |
Achanakamar Amarkantak | 2005 | Madhya Pradesh , Chhattisgarh | 3835 |
Great Rann of Kachchh | 2008 | Gujarat | 12454 |
Cold desert | 2009 | Himachal Pradesh | 7770 |
Seshachalam hills | 2010 | Karnataka | 4755 |
Panna | 2011 | Madhya Pradesh | 543 |
Biosphere reserves are typically divided into three zones: a core area, a buffer zone, and a transition area. The core area is a highly protected zone where no human activity is allowed, except for scientific research and monitoring. The buffer zone is an area surrounding the core zone where limited human activity is allowed, such as ecotourism and sustainable agriculture. The transition area is the outermost zone where human settlements and economic activities are concentrated.
Biosphere reserves in India are not only important for biodiversity conservation but also play a crucial role in providing livelihoods for local communities and promoting sustainable development in the region. The Indian government, along with various organizations, is committed to protecting these areas and ensuring their long-term sustainability.