Biosphere Reserves of India — Set 7

Correct Answer: C. 4

Four Biosphere Reserves were established in India in 1989: Gulf of Mannar (Tamil Nadu), Sundarban (West Bengal), Great Nicobar (A&N Islands), and Manas (Assam). This was the most prolific year for Biosphere Reserve designations in India. These four reserves cover diverse ecosystems from marine to mangrove to rainforest.

Correct Answer: C. Manas BR

The Manas Biosphere Reserve in Assam is known for the Golden Langur (Trachypithecus geei), one of the most beautiful and rarest primates in the world. The Golden Langur is found only in western Assam and neighbouring Bhutan. It is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Correct Answer: C. 2016

The Khangchendzonga National Park (which forms the core of the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve) was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016. It was recognized for its outstanding natural values and also as a mixed cultural-natural site. The site contains Mount Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest peak.

Correct Answer: C. Pygmy Hog

The Manas Biosphere Reserve is known for the Pygmy Hog (Porcula salvania), the world's smallest pig species, which is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List and under Schedule I of WPA 1972. Manas is also known for the Golden Langur and Hispid Hare. The Pygmy Hog Conservation Programme has bred and released this species back into Manas.

Correct Answer: D. Eastern Himalayas

The Dehang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve is part of the Eastern Himalayas biodiversity hotspot, one of India's four biodiversity hotspots recognized by Conservation International. The Eastern Himalayas hotspot extends from Nepal through Bhutan to northeast India and parts of China. This region has extremely high plant and animal endemism.

Correct Answer: C. Sundarban BR

The Sundarban Biosphere Reserve overlaps with both a Ramsar Wetland and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sundarban National Park and Tiger Reserve are at the core, surrounded by the Biosphere Reserve designation. This triple international recognition reflects its exceptional global conservation significance.

Correct Answer: B. Coral reefs and seagrass beds

The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve protects extensive coral reefs and seagrass beds around 21 islands between Rameswaram and Tuticorin. It is one of the world's richest regions in terms of marine biodiversity, with over 3,600 species of flora and fauna. The reserve is one of the few remaining habitats for the endangered Dugong in India.

Correct Answer: B. National Parks or Wildlife Sanctuaries under WPA 1972

In India's Biosphere Reserves, the Core Zones are typically legally protected as National Parks or Wildlife Sanctuaries under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. This provides the core with the strongest available legal protection. The Biosphere Reserve designation then extends the concept by adding buffer and transition zones around this protected core.

Correct Answer: B. Dibru-Saikhowa BR

The Dibru-Saikhowa Biosphere Reserve in Assam is associated with the Brahmaputra River and is known for its population of feral horses. The reserve is located on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra and is prone to seasonal flooding. It also provides critical habitat for River Dolphins (Gangetic Dolphin).

Correct Answer: B. Reaching 700 biosphere reserves and strengthening their quality

The Lima Action Plan for the UNESCO MAB Programme (2016-2025) set targets for reaching 700 Biosphere Reserves while strengthening their quality and management. The plan emphasizes the role of Biosphere Reserves in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It calls for better integration of biodiversity conservation with human well-being.