Visakha Prashar
August 02, 2023 07:59
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Biosphere Reserves in India: India, a land of diverse cultures and vibrant traditions, has unique ecosystems and biodiversity. India has established a network of Biosphere Reserves across the country to safeguard this natural wealth and ensure the coexistence of humans and nature. These reserves are a testament to India’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. In this article, we will explore the significance, characteristics, and contributions of Biospheres in India in preserving the nation’s ecological heritage.
India takes pride in its rich and diverse natural heritage, comprising unique ecosystems and abundant biodiversity. To safeguard these precious treasures and promote sustainable coexistence, the country has established 18 Biosphere Reserves. Designated under UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme, these reserves serve as sanctuaries for endangered species and protect various ecosystems. From the majestic Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve in the southern region to the pristine Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve in the north, each reserve contributes significantly to biodiversity conservation. Below mentioned is the list of the Biosphere Reserves in India.
| List Of Biosphere Reserves in India | ||
|---|---|---|
| Biosphere Reserves | Year | Location |
| Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve | 1986 | Part of Wayanad, Nagarhole, Bandipur, Madumalai, Nilambur, Silent Valley, and Siruvani hills (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka) |
| Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve | 1988 | Part of Chamoli, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar districts (Uttarakhand) |
| Nokrek Biosphere Reserve | 1988 | Part of Garo Hills (Meghalaya) |
| Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve | 1989 | Southernmost islands of Andaman And Nicobar (A&N Islands) |
| Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve | 1989 | The Indian part of the Gulf of Mannar between India and Sri Lanka (Tamil Nadu) |
| Manas Biosphere Reserve | 1989 | Part of Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, Barpeta, Nalbari, Kamprup, and Darang districts (Assam). |
| Sunderbans Biosphere Reserve | 1989 | Part of the delta of Ganges and Brahmaputra river system (West Bengal). |
| Simlipal Biosphere Reserve | 1994 | Part of the Mayurbhanj district (Odisha) |
| Dibru-Saikhowa Biosphere Reserve | 1997 | Part of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia Districts (Assam) |
| Dehang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve | 1998 | Part of Siang and Dibang Valley in Arunachal Pradesh |
| Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve | 1999 | Parts of Betul, Hoshangabad, and Chindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh |
| Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve | 2000 | Parts of Khangchendzonga hills and Sikkim |
| Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve | 2001 | Neyyar, Peppara, and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries and their adjoining areas in Kerala. |
| Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve | 2005 | Covers parts of Anupur and Dindori districts of M.P. and parts of Bilaspur districts of Chhattisgarh State. |
| Kachchh Biosphere Reserve | 2008 | Part of Kachchh, Rajkot, Surendra Nagar, and Patan Civil Districts of Gujarat State. |
| Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve | 2009 | Pin Valley National Park and surroundings; Chandratal and Sarchu & Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh |
| Seshachalam Hills Biosphere Reserve | 2010 | Seshachalam Hill Ranges covering parts of Chittoor and Kadapa districts of Andhra Pradesh |
| Panna Biosphere Reserve | 2011 | Part of Panna and Chhattarpur districts in Madhya Pradesh |
Biosphere reserves are invaluable ecosystems that play a crucial role in conserving biodiversity and promoting sustainable development. These designated areas encompass a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, marine environments, and grasslands. Their primary objective is to strike a balance between human activities and the preservation of nature’s delicate web of life.
India’s commitment to environmental conservation and biodiversity preservation is exemplified by its 12 UNESCO Protected Biosphere Reserves network. These sanctuaries, spanning diverse landscapes from the lush forests of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve to the pristine waters of the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, have earned international recognition for their outstanding efforts.
With recent additions like Panna Biosphere Reserve and the esteemed Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, India now boasts 12 out of the 18 Biosphere Reserves in the prestigious World Network of Biosphere Reserves. This recognition underscores the nation’s dedication to fostering sustainable development and harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, safeguarding its invaluable ecological heritage for generations to come. The below-mentioned list consists of names of UNESCO Protected Biosphere Reserves in India.
Biospheres Reserves in India are carefully structured to achieve the delicate balance between conservation and development. Each reserve is divided into three zones, each with a specific purpose:
At the heart of every Biosphere Reserve lies the core zone, a pristine and strictly protected area. Human interference is minimal here, allowing native flora and fauna to thrive undisturbed. The core zone is a sanctuary for endangered species and facilitates natural regeneration.
Surrounding the core zone is the buffer zone, which serves as a transition area. This zone encourages sustainable activities like research, education, and eco-friendly tourism. The buffer zone fosters the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature while ensuring the protection of the core area.
The outermost region of a Biosphere Reserve is the transition zone or multiple-use zone. This zone includes human settlements and allows for sustainable resource use, including agriculture and other livelihood activities. By engaging local communities, the transition zone promotes responsible resource management and the integration of traditional knowledge with modern practices.
The Biosphere Reserves in India play a crucial role in various aspects of conservation and development:
Biodiversity Conservation:
India’s remarkable biodiversity is sheltered within these reserves. Many endangered and endemic species find refuge here, shielded from threats posed by human activities and habitat destruction. The core zones act as vital breeding grounds, ensuring the continuity of numerous plant and animal species.
Ecosystem Preservation:
The diverse landscapes found within India’s Biosphere Reserves are emblematic of the nation’s ecological richness. These areas encompass a wide range of ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, grasslands, and coastal regions. The preservation of such diverse environments is vital for maintaining ecological balance and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
Sustainable Development:
The concept of sustainable development is at the core of Biosphere Reserves. By promoting the sustainable use of natural resources in the buffer and transition zones, these reserves demonstrate that human progress can be achieved without compromising the integrity of the environment. Eco-friendly tourism and community-based initiatives provide local communities with opportunities for economic growth while ensuring the preservation of their natural heritage.
Research and Education:
Biosphere Reserves in India serve as living laboratories for scientific research. Experts study various ecological processes, monitor changes in biodiversity, and develop innovative conservation strategies. Moreover, these reserves act as educational centers, raising awareness about environmental conservation among visitors and local communities alike.
Biosphere Reserves in India exemplify the nation’s dedication to conserving its ecological heritage and fostering sustainable development. By protecting biodiversity, preserving ecosystems, and promoting responsible practices, these reserves provide a blueprint for harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. As India continues to expand its conservation efforts, the network of Biosphere Reserves in India will remain a beacon of hope, ensuring a bright and sustainable future for generations to come.
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| Bird Sanctuaries in India |
| Important Riverside Cities in India |
| Highest Mountain Peaks in India |
| List of Lakes in India |
| Major Sea Ports in India |
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