Biosphere Reserves of India — Set 10

Correct Answer: B. Research and education activities permitted, surrounding the core zone

The Buffer Zone in a Biosphere Reserve surrounds the Core Zone and permits research, environmental education, low-impact tourism, and non-destructive activities. It acts as a protective ring around the Core Zone. Activities in the Buffer Zone must be consistent with the conservation objectives of the reserve.

Correct Answer: B. Conservation, Development, and Logistic Support (research and monitoring)

According to the UNESCO Statutory Framework, Biosphere Reserves serve three key functions: Conservation (of biodiversity and cultural diversity), Development (sustainable economic and human development), and Logistic Support (research, monitoring, education, and information exchange). These three functions distinguish Biosphere Reserves from purely protective designations.

Correct Answer: B. Ramsar sites are specifically for wetlands under the Ramsar Convention; Biosphere Reserves are UNESCO designations covering all ecosystem types

Ramsar Wetlands are specifically designated for their importance as wetland habitats under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (1971). Biosphere Reserves are designated by UNESCO's MAB Programme and can cover all types of ecosystems — forests, mountains, deserts, coasts, and wetlands. A site like the Sundarbans can have both designations simultaneously.

Correct Answer: C. 1988

The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve was established in 1988 in Uttarakhand. It was among the early Biosphere Reserves established in India, along with Nokrek (1988). The reserve includes the Nanda Devi National Park and Valley of Flowers, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Correct Answer: C. 1988

The Nokrek Biosphere Reserve in Meghalaya was established in 1988. It is a UNESCO recognized Biosphere Reserve known as the gene sanctuary of wild citrus fruits. The Red Panda and Asian Elephant are among the notable wildlife found in Nokrek.

Correct Answer: B. Integrate local communities and sustainable development with conservation

The Biosphere Reserve concept fundamentally recognizes that effective long-term conservation must integrate local communities and their sustainable development needs with conservation objectives. This is why Biosphere Reserves have a Transition Zone where sustainable human activities are permitted. The inclusion of communities as partners in conservation is a core principle of the MAB Programme.

Correct Answer: C. Panna BR

The Panna Biosphere Reserve is located on the Vindhya plateau in Madhya Pradesh. The Ken River flows through the Panna landscape, carving dramatic gorges in the Vindhyan sandstone. Panna is also known for its diamond mines, which exist near the biosphere reserve boundary.

Correct Answer: C. Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework 30x30 target

India's Biosphere Reserves contribute to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework's 30x30 target — the global goal of protecting at least 30% of land and ocean areas by 2030. Biosphere Reserves, along with National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and other protected areas, form part of India's contribution to this target. India has committed to expanding its protected area network.

Correct Answer: D. Eastern Ghats

The Seshachalam Hills Biosphere Reserve is located in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh. The Eastern Ghats are a discontinuous range running parallel to the eastern coast of India. The Seshachalam Hills are known for Red Sanders, Slender Loris, and diverse wildlife of the Eastern Ghats.

Correct Answer: C. Nokrek BR

The Nokrek Biosphere Reserve in Meghalaya is part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot and is designated as a Gene Sanctuary for wild citrus species. It is a UNESCO recognized Biosphere Reserve. The Nokrek peak (1,412 m) is the highest point in Meghalaya and the reserve is home to the Red Panda.