Previous Year Question

A Biosphere Reserve is an important and comprehensive strategy for Biodiversity Conservation, aimed at protecting Natural Ecosystems, plants, wildlife, and Genetic Diversity. It also promotes local livelihoods and the Sustainable Use of natural resources alongside conservation. A distinctive feature of Biosphere Reserves is their effort to establish a balance between the natural environment and human activities.

The concept of Biosphere Reserves is associated with UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB), which was launched in 1971. The programme has three major functions—Conservation of biodiversity and cultural diversity, environmentally Sustainable Development, and Logistic Support through research, education, and monitoring. Biosphere Reserves focus not only on protecting endangered species but also on conserving entire ecosystems while considering associated human activities.

Biosphere Reserves are generally divided into three major zones. The Core Zone provides strict protection to natural habitats and biodiversity. The Buffer Zone permits research, environmental education, and limited activities compatible with conservation. The Transition Zone allows local communities to undertake agriculture, livelihood activities, and other economic activities in accordance with the principles of Sustainable Development. This zoning system helps coordinate biodiversity conservation with human needs.

Among the other options, Botanical Gardens are primarily useful for Ex-situ Conservation of plant species. National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries are important instruments of In-situ Conservation, protecting species within their natural habitats. Although all these approaches contribute to biodiversity conservation, Biosphere Reserves provide a more comprehensive framework integrating environmental protection, research, and the sustainable development of local communities. India's first Biosphere Reserve is the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, established in 1986.