Context
- UNESCO has recognized the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve of India and added it to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR).
- The announcement was made during the 37th session of UNESCO’s International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme in Paris.
- This recognition highlights India’s growing contribution to global biodiversity conservation.
Key Highlights
- About the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve
- Location: Lahaul-Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh.
- Area: ~7,770 sq. km.
- Features:
- Extremely cold and arid climate (rain-shadow of the Himalayas).
- High-altitude desert ecosystem with fragile soil and limited vegetation.
- Unique flora and fauna adapted to harsh conditions (snow leopards, Himalayan ibex, medicinal plants).
- Part of the Trans-Himalayan region.
- UNESCO Recognition
- Added to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) in 2025.
- One among 26 new biosphere reserves recognized globally.
- India now has 13 sites included in UNESCO’s WNBR.
- Importance of the Inclusion
Environmental Significance:
- Promotes sustainable management of fragile ecosystems.
- Conserves biodiversity and prevents habitat degradation.
Global Recognition:
- Enhances India’s leadership in climate change adaptation and conservation efforts.
- Strengthens India’s role in UNESCO MAB programme.
Tourism & Research:
- Boosts eco-tourism in Himachal Pradesh.
- Encourages international scientific collaboration.
- Provides sustainable livelihood options for local tribal communities (e.g., Spiti valley population).
- India’s Presence in WNBR
Other Indian Biosphere Reserves already in UNESCO list include:
- Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve – First Indian entry (2000).
- Sundarbans (West Bengal).
- Great Nicobar (A&N Islands).
- Gulf of Mannar (Tamil Nadu).
- Panna (Madhya Pradesh).
- Similipal (Odisha).
- Nanda Devi (Uttarakhand), etc.