Himachal’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve joins UNESCO world network

Himachal Pradesh's Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve has been officially added to UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves, covering approximately 7,770 square kilometers across the Lahaul and Spiti districts in the western Himalayas. The reserve features high-altitude desert terrain, glacial valleys, windswept plateaus, and ecologically significant areas like Pin Valley National Park, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandratal Wetland, and the Sarchu plains. It hosts rich biodiversity, including 655 herb species, 41 shrubs, 17 tree species, and 119 bird species, with the Snow Leopard as the flagship species supported by a prey base of over 800 Blue Sheep. This recognition enhances global support for conservation, promoting sustainable development and protection of this fragile ecosystem.
*This news was published by Times of India on September 30, 2025.*

 

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