Biosphere Reserves of India — Set 14
Forest & Wildlife · भारत के जैव मंडल आरक्षित क्षेत्र · Questions 131–140 of 140
India has how many Biosphere Reserves recognized under UNESCO's World Network as of 2024?
Correct Answer: C. 12
As of 2024, India has 12 Biosphere Reserves recognized under UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The first recognition was for Nilgiri in 2000 and the most recent was for Panna in 2020. The remaining 6 of India's 18 Biosphere Reserves, including the newest Thar BR (2023), are yet to receive UNESCO recognition.
The three functions of a Biosphere Reserve as defined by UNESCO are:
Correct Answer: C. Conservation, Development, Logistic Support
According to UNESCO's Statutory Framework, Biosphere Reserves serve three interrelated functions: Conservation (biodiversity and genetic resources), Development (sustainable economic and human development based on local initiatives), and Logistic Support (research, monitoring, education, and information exchange). These three functions must be carried out together for a site to qualify as a Biosphere Reserve.
Which Biosphere Reserve in India was established most recently before 2023?
Correct Answer: C. Panna BR (2011)
Panna Biosphere Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, established in 2011, was the most recently established Biosphere Reserve in India before the Thar Biosphere Reserve was designated in 2023. Panna is known for successful tiger reintroduction and was recognized by UNESCO in 2020.
The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve was added to UNESCO's World Network in which year?
Correct Answer: C. 2001
The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve was added to UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2001. It was nationally established in 1988. The reserve includes the Valley of Flowers and Nanda Devi National Park, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Which is the correct set of states where Manas Biosphere Reserve is located?
Correct Answer: D. Assam only, bordering Bhutan
Manas Biosphere Reserve is located entirely in Assam, bordering Bhutan to the north. The Bhutan side has the Royal Manas National Park, which is a separate protected area in Bhutan. Together they form a transboundary conservation landscape. Manas is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve was added to the UNESCO World Network in which year?
Correct Answer: C. 2000
The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve was added to the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2000, making it the first Indian Biosphere Reserve to receive UNESCO recognition. It had been nationally designated since 1986. The 14-year gap between national designation and UNESCO recognition reflects the assessment process for UNESCO inclusion.
The Sundarban Biosphere Reserve primarily protects which type of forest ecosystem?
Correct Answer: C. Tropical mangrove forests
The Sundarban Biosphere Reserve primarily protects tropical mangrove forests in the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta. The Sundarbans are the world's largest continuous mangrove forest. This tidal forest ecosystem provides critical habitat for Bengal Tigers, Irrawaddy Dolphins, estuarine crocodiles, and numerous fish species.
Which is the correct chronological order of India's first three Biosphere Reserves?
Correct Answer: B. Nilgiri (1986), Dibru-Saikhowa (1986), Nanda Devi (1988)
The correct chronological order of India's first three Biosphere Reserves is: Nilgiri (1986), Dibru-Saikhowa (1986), and then Nanda Devi and Nokrek (both in 1988). Nilgiri was the very first, followed by Dibru-Saikhowa in the same year (1986). The 1988 batch included Nanda Devi and Nokrek.
The Biosphere Reserves Programme was launched by UNESCO in which year?
Correct Answer: B. 1971
The UNESCO Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme, under which Biosphere Reserves are designated, was launched in 1971. The concept was discussed at the International Conference on the Biosphere in 1968, and the MAB Programme was formally established by the UNESCO General Conference in 1970, beginning operations in 1971.
Which of the following is the correct pair of Biosphere Reserve and year of establishment?
Correct Answer: C. Sundarban — 1989
Sundarban Biosphere Reserve was correctly established in 1989. Manas was established in 1989 (not 1986), Nilgiri was established in 1986 (not 1989), and Panna was established in 2011 (not 2009). This question tests knowledge of the correct establishment years of India's Biosphere Reserves.