In a historic achievement, Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh has been recognized as India’s first Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. The designation was officially conferred at the 37th MAB-ICC meeting held in Hangzhou, China, from 26–28 September 2025, making it the 13th Indian site in the global MAB Network. This recognition highlights Spiti’s unique ecological and cultural landscape, shaped by its extreme cold desert environment and centuries-old traditions of sustainable living. Covering 7,770 sq. km across the Spiti Wildlife Division and adjoining parts of Lahaul, the biosphere reserve includes iconic sites like Pin Valley National Park, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chandratal Wetland, and supports rare flora and fauna—including the endangered Snow Leopard, Tibetan wolf, and over 800 blue sheep, along with 14 endemic and 47 medicinal plant species tied to the Sowa Rigpa healing tradition. CM Sukhu lauded the recognition as a result of proactive governance and the dedication of local communities, affirming the state’s commitment to balancing conservation with development in the face of climate change. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Amitabh Gautam noted that the global recognition will promote research collaboration, boost eco-tourism, and strengthen climate resilience efforts in the fragile Trans-Himalayan ecosystem.
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Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
