Question

What is a bio-resever ? Mention its main objectives ?

Answer 1

A protected area reserved for the conservation of endangered species of flora (plants) and fauna (animals) in their natural habitat. The Sunderbans in the West Bengal and Nanda Devi in Uttaranchal are the two examples.
Uses of Biosphere Reserve
(i) In a biosphere reserve, endangered species of animals and plants are protected.
(ii) This important heritage (of plants and animals) is transmitted to the future generations in all its natural vigour and glory.
(iii) The surrounding areas are reserved for research work for the betterment of flora and fauna.

Answer 2

Biosphere Reserves are multi-purpose protected areas to preserve the genetic diversity in representative eco-systems.
The major objectives of Biosphere Reserves are:

(i) To conserve diversity and integrity of plants, animals and micro-organism;

(ii) To promote research on ecological conservation and other environmental aspects and; (iii) To provide facilities for education, awareness and training. So far, 13 Biosphere Reserves have been set up.

They are: Nilgiri, Nanda Devi, Nokrek, Great Nicobar, Gulf of Mannar, Manas, Sunderbans, Similipal, Dibru Daikhowa, Dehong Deband, Pachmarhi, Kanchanjanga and Agasthyamalai. Out of 13 Biosphere Reserves, three have been recognised on World Network of Biosphere Reserves by UNESCO, namely, Nilgiri, Sunderbans and Gulf of Mannar. In 1973 UNESCO launched a worldwide programme on man and biosphere.