Which set of the following biosphere reserves in India is included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves ?

A) Gulf of Mannar, Nokrek, Pachmarhi and Simlipal
B) Gulf of Mannar, Kanchanjunga, Nokrek and Seshachalam
C) Nilgiri, Nokrek, Pachmarhi and Manas
D) Nilgiri, Nokrek, Pachmarhi and Seshachalam

Correct Option: A

As of 2026, India has 18 notified Biosphere Reserves, out of which 13 are included in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR). The most recent addition is the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve (Himachal Pradesh), added in September 2025.

The 13 WNBR sites are:

• Nilgiri (2000)
• Gulf of Mannar (2001)
• Sunderban (2001)
• Nanda Devi (2004)
• Nokrek (2009)
• Pachmarhi (2009)
• Similipal (2009)
• Achanakmar-Amarkantak (2012)
• Great Nicobar (2013)
• Agasthyamalai (2016)
• Khangchendzonga (2018)
• Panna (2020)
• Cold Desert (2025)

Analysis of Options:

• Option A: All four (Gulf of Mannar, Nokrek, Pachmarhi, Similipal) are included in the WNBR.
• Option B & D: Incorrect because Seshachalam is not part of the UNESCO WNBR.
• Option C: Incorrect because Manas is not part of the UNESCO WNBR.