“From Deserts to Mountains: India’s Biosphere Reserves Pioneering Conservation”, India Narrative, November 15, 2025
“India’s biosphere reserves represent one of the nation’s most innovative and urgent conservation experiments—a living testament to how biodiversity, cultural richness, and sustainable development can coexist. These landscapes are more than preserved wilderness; they are dynamic zones where ecological stewardship is interwoven with local livelihoods, scientific research, and policy learning. A closer look at their operations reveals both remarkable achievements and persistent challenges, underscoring India’s continuing journey to balance nature and people.
As of 2025, India counts 18 biosphere reserves, together spanning 91,425 square kilometers, and covering every major ecological region from the Great Rann of Kutch’s deserts to the lush forests of the Nilgiri hills. Thirteen of these reserves are recognized as part of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves, highlighting their global significance. Notable among new additions is Himachal Pradesh’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve, whose UNESCO designation signals India’s rising profile in planetary conservation efforts.
These reserves are not merely lists of protected areas—they are structured to accommodate the country’s diversity of landscapes, species, and cultures. From Nokrek, the smallest reserve in Meghalaya, to sprawling multi-state sites in the Western Ghats, each reserve is a microcosm that reflects India’s commitment to both ecological preservation and human welfare……”
Read full article at indianarrative.com
