Biosphere Reserves in India, List, Origin, Structure, Importance

Biosphere Reserves in India are designated by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) to protect representative parts of natural and cultural landscapes. These areas may cover large terrestrial, coastal, or marine ecosystems, or a combination of both. It protects and maintains the diversity of flora, fauna, and ecosystems and promotes economic and social development that aligns with ecological conservation.

Biosphere Reserves serve as living examples of coexistence between humans and nature, demonstrating how development and conservation can progress together while respecting each other’s needs.

Biosphere Reserves

Biosphere Reserves are established by countries and recognized under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. Their main goal is to promote sustainable development through local community involvement and scientific management.

These reserves encompass terrestrial, marine, and coastal ecosystems, conserving all forms of life in situ along with their support systems. They also act as reference sites for monitoring and evaluating ecological changes over time.

Part of UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere (MAB) framework since 1971, Biosphere Reserves are nominated by national governments. There are over 500 reserves across more than 100 countries, highlighting their importance in preserving ecosystems while supporting human development.

Biosphere Reserves Origin

The Biosphere Reserves programme was initiated by UNESCO in 1971, with the first reserve established in 1979. Since then, the network has grown to 686 reserves across 122 countries, including 20 transboundary sites.

Biosphere Reserves are nominated by national governments and remain under the sovereign jurisdiction of the countries where they are located. Despite this, their status is internationally recognized, highlighting their global importance in biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

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Biosphere Reserves Structure

Biosphere Reserves are structured into three interconnected zones, each designed to balance conservation with sustainable use. These zones work together to protect biodiversity while supporting research, education, and local livelihoods.

Biosphere Reserves Designation Criteria

The core area should represent a typical bio-geographical unit and be large enough to sustain viable populations across all trophic levels.

• It must include an effectively protected and minimally disturbed core zone with significant value for nature conservation.
• The site should have potential for preserving traditional tribal or rural lifestyles that reflect harmonious use of the environment.
• The management authority must involve and cooperate with local communities to integrate biodiversity conservation with socio-economic development.
• Efforts should focus on managing and containing conflicts while using community knowledge and experience for sustainable outcomes.

Difference Between Biosphere Reserves and National Park & Wildlife Sanctuaries

To understand conservation in India better, it’s important to know Difference Between Biosphere Reserve and National Park & Wildlife Sanctuaries. Both aim at protecting biodiversity, but their objectives, legal backing, and approach vary.

List of Biosphere Reserves in India 2025

India is home to a rich natural heritage, with ecosystems, to preserve this biodiversity and promote sustainable development, the country has established 18 Biosphere Reserves. Many of these are also recognized under UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme, highlighting their global importance. These reserves not only safeguard endangered species but also protect diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage. Below is the complete List of Biosphere Reserves in India 2025, along with their year of establishment, states covered, and key species protected.

First Biosphere Reserve in India

The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, established in 1986, holds the distinction of being the First Biosphere Reserve in India. Spread across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala, it forms part of the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot. This reserve shelters a wide range of unique flora and fauna, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, the Lion-tailed Macaque, and the Malabar Giant Squirrel. Its diverse landscapes, from montane forests to grasslands, make it a vital ecological region, balancing conservation with the livelihood needs of local communities.

Smallest Biosphere Reserve in India

Nokrek Biosphere Reserve in Meghalaya is known as the Smallest Biosphere Reserve in India covering only 820 km². The location provides shelter to Red Panda, Hoolock Gibbon and unique citrus plant species.

Biosphere Reserve Importance

• Conservation of Biodiversity – Protects endangered species, rare plants, animals, and ecosystems.
• Sustainable Development – Encourages eco-tourism, organic farming, and traditional practices supporting local communities.
• Climate Change Mitigation – Forests and wetlands act as carbon sinks, reducing global warming.
• Research and Education – Provides opportunities for scientific research, wildlife studies, and conservation awareness.
• Cultural Preservation – Safeguards indigenous tribes, their traditions, and sustainable lifestyles.

Biosphere Reserve Challenges

• Human Encroachment – Expansion of agriculture, grazing, and settlements disrupts natural habitats.
• Deforestation & Poaching – Illegal logging, hunting, and wildlife trade reduce biodiversity.
• Climate Change – Alters rainfall, temperature, and ecosystem balance, affecting species survival.
• Lack of Funding – Limited financial support weakens conservation and monitoring programs.
• Tourism Pressure – Unregulated tourism leads to waste generation and habitat degradation.

Conflict with Locals – Restrictions on resource use often clash with community livelihood needs.