India's Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve in Himachal Pradesh has been included in UNESCO's World Network of Biosphere Reserves.Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced the development during the 37th session of UNESCO’s International Coordinating Council – Man and the Biosphere (MAB) held in Hangzhou, China, on September 27, 2025.With the inclusion of the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve, India now has 13 biosphere reserves listed in UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR).India recently added two new Ramsar sites in Bihar, Gokul Jalashay (448 ha) in Buxar district and Udaipur Jheel (319 ha) in West Champaran district.With these additions, the total number of Ramsar sites in India has risen to 93.UNESCO designated 26 new biosphere reserves across 21 countries — the highest number in 20 years. The World Network of Biosphere Reserves now includes 785 sites in 142 countries.

Key Features of Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve

¨     This biosphere reserve spans approximately 7,770 sq km across the Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.

¨     This reserve is located in the trans-Himalayan region and is one of the coldest and driest ecosystems in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

¨     This ecosystem comprises windswept plateaus, glacial valleys, alpine lakes, and high-altitude deserts, and includes Pin Valley National Park, Kibber and Chandratal Wildlife Sanctuaries, and the Sarchu plains.

¨     This fragile ecosystem supports many vascular plant species, mammal species and bird species, with the snow leopard as the flagship species.

¨     Significance of the Recognition

¨     This designation highlights the need to safeguard high-altitude mountain ecosystems facing tourism pressures and climate change.

¨     This recognition is expected to promote international research collaborations, responsible eco-tourism, and strengthen climate resilience efforts in the Himalayas.

¨     The UNESCO listing places India’s Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve on the global conservation map, emphasising biodiversity conservation and community-led sustainable development.

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)

¨     UNESCO is a specialised agency of the United Nations (UN) dedicated to promoting peace and security through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication.

¨     It was founded in 1945 after the devastation of World War II.

¨     Presently, it has 194 member states and 12 associate members.

¨     The UNESCO headquarters is located in Paris, France.