Shimla, Sep 28 (NationPress) Spiti Valley in the Lahaul-Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh has achieved recognition as India's first Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve under the esteemed UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) programme. This accolade was officially granted during the 37th International Coordinating Council (MAB-ICC) meeting held in Hangzhou, China, from September 26 to 28.

With this new addition, India now boasts a total of 13 Biosphere Reserves within the MAB Network. This remarkable accomplishment is a result of the dedicated efforts of the state government, which has consistently showcased the region's distinctive ecology, climate, culture, and heritage, alongside the commitment of local communities that have coexisted with nature for generations.

According to an official statement from the Chief Minister, “The state government is devoted to safeguarding and preserving the rich natural and cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh, along with its delicate ecology amidst climate change, while promoting a balance between development and nature.”

The Spiti Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve extends over a vast area of 7,770 sq. km, encompassing the entire Spiti Wildlife Division (7,591 sq. km) and adjacent sections of the Lahaul Forest Division, which includes Baralacha Pass, Bharatpur, and Sarchu (179 sq. km).

Located at elevations ranging from 3,300 to 6,600 meters, the Reserve falls within the Trans-Himalaya biogeographic province of the Indian Himalaya.

The reserve is divided into three distinct zones: a core zone of 2,665 sq. km, a buffer zone of 3,977 sq. km, and a transition zone of 1,128 sq. km. It integrates Pin Valley National Park, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandratal Wetland, and the Sarchu Plains, showcasing a unique cold desert ecosystem shaped by extreme climate conditions, varied topography, and fragile soils. The area is ecologically diverse, home to 655 herbs, 41 shrubs, and 17 tree species, including 14 endemic and 47 medicinal plants vital to the Sowa Rigpa and Amchi healing traditions. The wildlife includes 17 mammal species and 119 bird species, with the snow leopard being a flagship species.

Other notable species in the region include the Tibetan wolf, red fox, ibex, blue sheep, Himalayan snow cock, golden eagle, and the bearded vulture.

With a population exceeding 800 blue sheep, Spiti Valley offers a robust prey base for larger carnivores. Amitabh Gautam, PCCF (Wildlife), remarked, “This recognition firmly positions Himachal's cold deserts on the global conservation map. It will foster international research collaboration, encourage responsible eco-tourism to support local livelihoods, and enhance India's mission to build climate resilience in the vulnerable Himalayan ecosystems.”