India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh has been included in UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav announced on Saturday. The recognition came during the 37th Session of UNESCO’s International Coordinating Council – Man and the Biosphere, held on September 27.
With this addition, India now has 13 biosphere reserves listed in the prestigious global network, underscoring the country’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and community-driven sustainable development, the minister said in a post on X.
The announcement follows closely on the heels of India’s designation of two new Ramsar sites in Bihar—Gokul Jalashay, spanning 448 hectares in Buxar district, and Udaipur Jheel, covering 319 hectares in West Champaran district. With these additions, India’s tally of Ramsar sites, recognized as wetlands of international importance, has risen to 93, covering a total area of 13,60,719 hectares.
In a separate post on X, Yadav highlighted India’s strengthened resolve to conserve its wetland ecosystems, emphasizing their role in supporting biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods. He attributed these achievements to the country’s unwavering commitment to ecosystem preservation, protection, and restoration under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.