How Many Biosphere Reserves Are There In India?

Biosphere reserves serve as pollution markers. By studying the composition of biosphere reserves we can tell what pollutant is caused by humans. Currently, there are 18 biosphere reserves in India. These are protected areas for the conservation of plants and animals. Out of these 18 biosphere reserves, 12 are recognized as part of “World Network of Biosphere Reserves”.

Each biosphere reserve is divided into three zones: core zone, buffer zone, and manipulation zone. A core zone is a legally protected area where human activities are not allowed. It is the innermost or central zone. In buffer zones, limited human activities are allowed only for research and educational purposes, this area is presented outside the core zone. The manipulation zone is the area where human activities are allowed like cropping, forestry, and settlement. The manipulation zone is the outermost area. Out of 18 Indian Biosphere Reserves, 12 are part of the World Network of biosphere reserves.

Importance of biosphere reserve

Following are some of the importance of biosphere reserves:

• Development: biosphere reserves play an important role in the overall development of society, and nation.

• Healthy ecosystem: These also play an important role in maintaining the water cycle, or other natural problems such as soil erosion.

• Conservation: It also helps in the conservation of plants and animals.

• Education and research: These areas are protected areas but sometimes may also be used for research or educational purposes as mentioned earlier.

Biosphere reserves

Some of the biosphere services are mentioned below:

• Nanda Devi

• Nilgiri

• Great Nicobar

• Nokrek

• Manas

• Gulf of Mannar

• Sundarban

• Simlipal

• Pachmarhi

• Dehang-Dibang

• Dibru-Saikhowa

• Khangchendzonga

• Kachh

• Cold desert

• Panna

• Seshachalam Hills

• Achanakmar – Amarkantak

• Agasthyamalai