Shimla
Himachal Pradesh’s Spiti Valley has been recognised as India’s first Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme. The honour was announced at the 37th MAB-ICC meeting in Hangzhou, China, held from September 26 to 28.
With this, India now has 13 biosphere reserves in UNESCO’s MAB network. The recognition highlights Spiti’s fragile ecology, rare wildlife, and cultural heritage. Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister said the state is committed to balancing conservation with development while protecting its natural treasures in the era of climate change.
The new reserve covers 7,770 sq. km, including Spiti Wildlife Division, parts of Lahaul Forest Division, Baralacha Pass, Bharatpur, and Sarchu. Spread across altitudes of 3,300 to 6,600 meters, the reserve has three zones: a 2,665 sq. km core, a 3,977 sq. km buffer, and a 1,128 sq. km transition zone. It includes Pin Valley National Park, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandratal Wetland, and Sarchu Plains.
Spiti’s cold desert ecosystem is home to 655 herbs, 41 shrubs, 17 tree species, and many medicinal plants vital to traditional healing practices. Its wildlife includes snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, red foxes, ibex, blue sheep, golden eagles, and bearded vultures. With over 800 blue sheep, Spiti supports a strong prey base for large carnivores.
Officials said the recognition will promote global research partnerships, responsible eco-tourism, and climate resilience. PCCF (Wildlife) Amitabh Gautam noted that this achievement puts Himachal’s cold deserts firmly on the world conservation map while boosting local community livelihoods.
