Introduction: India’s Biosphere Reserves are 18 and these extensive sanctuaries safeguarding diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Unlike typical parks, they include buffer zones allowing limited economic activities, prioritizing protection for both nature and human communities. Biosphere reserves are vital for conserving biodiversity while supporting local livelihoods. They serve as habitats for diverse wildlife and migratory birds, all while ensuring sustainable development and preserving traditional ways of life.
India’s biosphere reserves exemplify harmonious conservation, valuing both nature and human well-being. Continued investment in their preservation is essential for sustainable coexistence and the legacy of future generations.
This network was inaugurated by UNESCO in 1971, following the launch of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) program two years prior. In India, the government has established 18 biosphere reserves across the country, typically falling under IUCN Category V Protected areas.
What is Biosphere Reserve?
Biosphere reserves encompass diverse terrestrial, marine, and coastal ecosystems, serving as crucial sites for harmonizing biodiversity preservation with sustainable utilization. These reserves, nominated by national governments, maintain sovereignty under the states where they are situated and enjoy international recognition.
Interdisciplinary Sustainability Solutions: As designated “Science for Sustainability support sites,” biosphere reserves serve as specialized hubs for testing interdisciplinary approaches to managing social and ecological systems. These areas facilitate research and management efforts aimed at understanding and mitigating conflicts and preserving biodiversity.
Complementary Zones and Functions: Biosphere reserves are structured into three interconnected zones, each serving distinct but complementary purposes:
Core Areas: These areas are strictly protected to conserve landscapes, ecosystems, species, and genetic diversity.
Buffer Zones: Surrounding or adjacent to the core areas, these zones allow for activities compatible with ecological sustainability, supporting research, training, and education.
Transition Areas: Representing the most active part of the reserve, these zones promote sustainable economic and human development while preserving sociocultural values.
Biosphere reserves offer a comprehensive framework for sustainable conservation, integrating scientific research, education, and socio-economic development within designated zones. By striking a balance between conservation and sustainable use, these reserves play a vital role in promoting harmony between humans and the environment, ensuring the well-being of present and future generations.
List of India’s Biosphere Reserves:- There are total 18 biosphere reserves in India as follows.
| S. No. | Name | Year | Location | State | Area (in kilometre square) |
| 1 | Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve | 1986 | The biosphere reserve comprises portions of Wayanad, Nagarhole, Bandipur, Madumalai, Nilambur, Silent Valley, and Siruvani hills, spanning across the states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. | Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala | 5520 |
| 2 | Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve | 1988 | The biosphere reserve includes parts of Chamoli, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar districts in Uttarakhand. | Uttarakhand | 5860 |
| 3 | Nokrek | 1988 | The biosphere reserve encompasses a portion of the Garo Hills region in Meghalaya. | Meghalaya | 820 |
| 4 | Gulf of Mannar | 1989 | The biosphere reserve includes the Indian portion of the Gulf of Mannar, located between India and Sri Lanka, in Tamil Nadu. | Tamil Nadu | 10500 |
| 5 | Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve | 1989 | The biosphere reserve covers the southernmost islands of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (A&N Islands). | Andaman and Nicobar Islands | 885 |
| 6 | Sunderbans | 1989 | The biosphere reserve encompasses a portion of the Ganges and Brahmaputra river delta system in West Bengal. | West Bengal | 9360 |
| 7 | Manas | 1989 | The biosphere reserve includes parts of Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, Barpeta, Nalbari, Kamrup, and Darrang districts in Assam. | Assam | 2837 |
| 8 | Simlipal | 1994 | The biosphere reserve covers a portion of the Mayurbhanj district in Odisha (formerly Orissa). | Odisha | 4374 |
| 9 | Dibru-Saikhowa | 1997 | The biosphere reserve encompasses portions of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts in Assam. | Assam | 765 |
| 10 | Dehang-Dibang | 1998 | The biosphere reserve includes part of the Siang and Dibang Valley regions in Arunachal Pradesh. | Arunachal Pradesh | 5112 |
| 11 | Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve | 1999 | The biosphere reserve covers portions of Betul, Hoshangabad, and Chhindwara districts in Madhya Pradesh. | Madhya Pradesh | 4981.72 |
| 12 | Khangchendzonga National Park | 2000 | The biosphere reserve comprises sections of the Khangchendzonga hills and the state of Sikkim. | Sikkim | 2620 |
| 13 | Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve | 2001 | The biosphere reserve includes Neyyar, Peppara, and Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuaries, along with their surrounding areas, in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. | Kerala and Tamil Nadu | 3500.08 |
| 14 | Achanakamar – Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve | 2005 | The biosphere reserve spans areas of Anupur and Dindori districts in Madhya Pradesh, as well as parts of Bilaspur district in Chhattisgarh State. | Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh | 3835 |
| 15 | Great Rann of Kutch | 2008 | The biosphere reserve includes portions of Kutch, Morbi, Surendranagar, and Patan districts, making it the largest biosphere reserve in India. | Gujarat | 12454 |
| 16 | Cold Desert | 2009 | Pin Valley National Park, along with Chandratal, Sarchu, and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, are located in Himachal Pradesh. | Himachal Pradesh | 7770 |
| 17 | Seshachalam Hills | 2010 | The Seshachalam Hill Ranges extend over portions of Chittoor and Kadapa districts in Andhra Pradesh. | Andhra Pradesh | 4755.997 |
| 18 | Panna | 2011 | Panna and Chhattarpur districts in Madhya Pradesh are included in the biosphere reserve. | Madhya Pradesh | 2998.98 |
Global Distribution of Biosphere Reserves
Biosphere reserves are strategically distributed across the world, spanning various continents and countries. These reserves serve as crucial sites for conserving biodiversity and fostering sustainable development.
Overview:
- Africa: Hosts 85 biosphere reserves spread across 31 countries, contributing to the protection of diverse ecosystems on the continent.
- Arab States: Encompasses 33 biosphere reserves in 12 countries, playing a vital role in conserving unique habitats in the region.
- Asia and the Pacific: Boasts 157 biosphere reserves across 24 countries, serving as key areas for preserving biodiversity and supporting local communities.
- Europe and North America: Houses 302 biosphere reserves in 38 countries, playing a significant role in safeguarding diverse landscapes and promoting sustainable practices.
- Latin America and the Caribbean: Features 130 biosphere reserves in 21 countries, contributing to the conservation of biodiversity and cultural heritage in the region.