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Context:
India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve (CDBR) in Himachal Pradesh has been included in UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR).
Key Highlights:
- The inclusion was part of 26 new biosphere reserves across 21 countries, the largest addition in 20 years.
- With this, India now has 13 biosphere reserves listed in the WNBR.
- Decision taken at the 37th session of UNESCO’s International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) in Paris.
Location & Area
- Spread across 7,770 sq km in Lahaul-Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh.
- Part of the Trans-Himalayan region, including:
- Spiti Wildlife Division
- Lahaul Forest Division areas: Baralacha Pass, Bharatpur, Sarchu
- Integrates:
- Pin Valley National Park
- Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary
- Chandratal Wetland
- Sarchu plains
UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR)
- Established under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme in 1971.
- Objective: Promote sustainable development by integrating conservation, research, education, and community participation.
- Serves as a global platform for sharing knowledge, research, and best practices in biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource management.
