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Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Joins UNESCO WNBR

29 September 20251 min read
ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGYCold DesertBiosphere ReserveJoins UNESCOWNBR29 September 2025safalsetu.com

Why in the news

UNESCO added India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve (CDBR) in Himachal Pradesh to its World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR).

Key facts

  • Part of 26 new reserves in 21 countries, the biggest addition in 20 years; India’s tally is now 13.
  • Decided at the 37th session of the MAB International Coordinating Council, Paris.
  • Area: 7,770 sq km in Lahaul-Spiti, within the Trans-Himalayan region.
  • Includes: Pin Valley National Park, Kibber Sanctuary, Chandratal Wetland.

About WNBR

  • Under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme, 1971; aims at sustainable development.

Exam angle

  • District: Lahaul-Spiti; India’s count: 13.

Test yourself

1. In which district is the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve located?

The reserve spreads over Lahaul-Spiti district.

2. After the CDBR inclusion, how many Indian biosphere reserves are in UNESCO's WNBR?

The notes state India now has 13 reserves listed.

3. The World Network of Biosphere Reserves functions under which UNESCO programme?

WNBR was created under UNESCO's MAB Programme in 1971.

This topic is part of Daily Current Affairs 28 & 29 September 2025 (21 topics).

All topics of the dayDay quizSeptember 2025

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