Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Added to UNESCO’s WNBR
- TPP
- Oct 1
- 3 min read
Why Did UNESCO Include the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Its World Network, and What Makes This Himalayan Region Globally Significant?
UNESCO has included the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in India as part of 26 new sites added to the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR).
Key Highlights
India now has 13 Biosphere Reserves in the UNESCO WNBR.
Globally, WNBR now includes 785 biosphere reserve sites.
São Tomé and Príncipe became the first country whose entire national territory is designated as a biosphere reserve.
Where Is the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve Located?
The Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve is:
India’s first high-altitude cold desert biosphere reserve
One of the coldest, driest ecosystems in UNESCO’s WNBR
Spread across the Trans-Himalayan region
Geographical Coverage
In Ladakh (UT):
Leh district
Kargil district
In Himachal Pradesh:
Spiti Valley
Kinnaur district
Which Protected Areas Are Covered Under the Biosphere Reserve?
The Cold Desert BR includes several ecologically critical protected regions:
Pin Valley National Park and surrounding landscapes
Chandratal Lake
Sarchu
Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary
These areas contain high-altitude habitats, glacial terrains, and biodiversity hotspots.
What Are the Climatic and Biome Features of the Cold Desert Region?
1. Cold Desert Biome
A high-altitude cold desert characterized by:
Extremely low precipitation
Harsh, dry winds
Long, severe winters
Sparse vegetation
2. Why Is It So Dry?
Two major factors:
Leeward side of the Himalayas: A rain-shadow zone
Very high elevation: Leading to cold, thin air and minimal moisture
3. Soil Characteristics
Thin
Coarse-textured
Sandy-loamy
Very low organic matter due to limited vegetation
4. Hydrology
Meltwater from Himalayan glaciers feeds:
Spiti River
Pin RiverThese rivers sustain the fragile high-altitude ecosystems.
What Flora Is Found in the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve?
Despite extreme conditions, many hardy plant species thrive:
Common Plant Species
Caragana
Ephedra
Juniperus
Artemisia
Seabuckthorn (high ecological and economic value)
Importance of Seabuckthorn
Helps in soil stabilization
Major contributor to carbon sequestration
Widely used for juice, oil, pharmaceuticals, and local livelihood
What Fauna Inhabit the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve?
Flagship Species
Snow Leopard – apex predator and indicator of ecosystem health
Other Wildlife Species
Himalayan Ibex
Tibetan Argali
Blue Sheep (Bharal)
Eurasian Lynx
Red Fox
Himalayan Wolf
Golden Eagle
This region is one of the most important habitats for snow leopards globally.
What Is the Cultural Significance of This Region?
The Cold Desert BR is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhist culture.
Cultural Elements
Gompas (monasteries)
Chorten (Buddhist stupas)
Mani Walls (rows of inscribed prayer stones)
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
Buddhist Chanting of Ladakh is listed under UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Who Are the Indigenous and Local Communities Living in This Region?
Major communities include:
Bhotia
Changpa
Spiti tribes
Their Livelihood Practices
Nomadic pastoralism
Cultivation of barley and buckwheat
Rearing yak, goats, and sheep
High dependence on alpine ecosystems
What Is the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR)?
About WNBR
Launched in 1976
Managed under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme
About MAB Programme
Launched in 1971
An intergovernmental scientific programme
Focus: Strengthening the relationship between people and nature
Promotes:
Sustainable development
Research and monitoring
Climate adaptation
Conservation with community involvement
How Does UNESCO Designate Biosphere Reserves Under the MAB Framework?
Designation Authority
The Director-General of UNESCO designates sites
Based on recommendations of the MAB International Coordinating Council (MAB ICC)
Criteria and Methodology
Seville Strategy for Biosphere Reserves
Statutory Framework of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves
Proposal Submission
Proposed by UNESCO Member States and Associate Members
Sovereignty
Biosphere reserves remain under full national jurisdiction
A country may withdraw its site by notifying the MAB Secretariat
Periodic Review
Every 10 years
Evaluates:
Management performance
Conservation effectiveness
Community benefits
Sustainability goals
UNESCO may withdraw a site if standards are not met.
Why Is UNESCO’s Recognition Important for India?
Global recognition of India's unique high-altitude desert ecosystems
Boosts research, ecotourism, and international collaboration
Enhances funding opportunities for conservation
Protects both biodiversity and traditional Himalayan culture
Strengthens India’s standing in global environmental governance
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