Recognition of Spiti Valley as India's First Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve
Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley was recognized as India's first Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme.
Details of the Recognition
- Formal recognition was conferred during the 37th International Coordinating Council (MAB-ICC) meeting held from September 26 to 28, 2025, in Hangzhou, China.
- The inclusion raises India’s count to 13 biosphere reserves in the MAB Network.
Geographical and Ecological Overview
- The Spiti Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve encompasses a total area of 7,770 sq km.
- It covers the entire Spiti Wildlife Division (7,591 sq km) and parts of the Lahaul Forest Division.
- Altitude ranges from 3,300 to 6,600 metres, falling within the Trans-Himalaya biogeographic province.
- The reserve is divided into three zones:
- Core zone: 2,665 sq km
- Buffer zone: 3,977 sq km
- Transition zone: 1,128 sq km
Unique Ecosystem and Biodiversity
- Integrates several protected areas: Pin Valley National Park, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandratal Wetland, and Sarchu Plains.
- Home to 655 herbs, 41 shrubs, and 17 tree species, including 14 endemic and 47 medicinal plants tied to the Sowa Rigpa/Amchi healing tradition.
- Hosts 17 mammal species and 119 bird species, with the Snow Leopard as a flagship species.
- Other notable species: Tibetan wolf, red fox, ibex, blue sheep, Himalayan snow cock, golden eagle, and bearded vulture.
- Over 800 blue sheep provide a strong prey base for large carnivores.
Impact and Further Developments
- Recognition enhances international research collaboration and promotes responsible eco-tourism.
- Supports local livelihoods and strengthens India's efforts to build climate resilience in the fragile Himalayan ecosystems.