Q1. Which of the following zones of a Biosphere Reserve is kept absolutely undisturbed?
- Transition Zone
- Buffer Zone
- Core Zone
- Rehabilitation Zone
Correct Option: 3. Core Zone
Explanation: The Core Zone of a Biosphere Reserve is the innermost and most protected area, where no human activity is allowed. This zone contains the most valuable ecosystems and is maintained in its natural state to:
• Preserve biodiversity (especially endemic, rare, or endangered species),
• Allow natural ecological and evolutionary processes to operate undisturbed,
• Serve as a reference point for scientific research.
It is legally protected and corresponds to the category of Strict Nature Reserve or Wilderness Area under IUCN guidelines.
Q2. The concept of Biosphere Reserves was developed under which international programme?
- Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
- World Heritage Convention
- Ramsar Convention
- Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB)
Correct Option: 4. Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB)
Explanation: The Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) is a UNESCO initiative launched in 1971. It aims to create a scientific basis for:
• Improving relationships between people and their environments,
• Promoting sustainable development,
• Protecting natural and cultural landscapes.
The MAB Programme officially introduced the concept of Biosphere Reserves in 1974, and the first Biosphere Reserves were designated in 1976. These reserves serve as living laboratories for testing out and demonstrating integrated management of land, water, and biodiversity.
Q3. Which of the following is NOT a function of a Biosphere Reserve?
- Conservation
- Sustainable Development
- Industrialization
- Logistical Support
Correct Option: 3. Industrialization
Explanation: Biosphere Reserves are designed to balance conservation and development. They have three core functions:
(1) Conservation – protecting genetic resources, species, ecosystems, and landscapes.
(2) Development – promoting sustainable economic and human development.
(3) Logistical Support – facilitating research, education, and information exchange.
Industrialization, which typically involves pollution, large-scale habitat modification, and unsustainable exploitation of natural resources, is contrary to the principles of Biosphere Reserves and is not permitted within their zones.
Q4. Which one of the following is a correct sequence of zonation in a Biosphere Reserve from innermost to outermost?
- Transition → Buffer → Core
- Core → Buffer → Transition
- Buffer → Core → Transition
- Transition → Core → Buffer
Correct Option: 2. Core → Buffer → Transition
Explanation: Biosphere Reserves are structured into three interrelated zones:
• Core Zone – Highly protected, no human activity allowed.
• Buffer Zone – Surrounds the core; limited human activities like research, education, eco-tourism are allowed.
• Transition Zone – Outermost area; human settlements exist here, and sustainable resource use is promoted.
This zoning system allows for both conservation and human development, supporting research and education while protecting the natural environment.
Q5. Which of the following is NOT an Indian biodiversity hotspot?
- Himalayas
- Indo-Burma
- Western Ghats and Sri Lanka
- Amazon Rainforest
Correct Option: 4. Amazon Rainforest
Explanation: India is part of 4 biodiversity hotspots:
(1) Himalayas – includes Eastern Himalayas and associated regions.
(2) Indo-Burma – covers North-East India and surrounding countries.
(3) Western Ghats and Sri Lanka – known for high endemicity and species diversity.
(4) Sundaland – includes the Nicobar Islands (not the mainland).
The Amazon Rainforest is a biodiversity hotspot, but it is located in South America, not India.