Which of the following biosphere reserves in India is recognized internationally for hosting the largest single population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and wild Asian elephants within its evergreen shola-grassland mosaic?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, established as India's first biosphere reserve in 1986, spans parts of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, encompassing the Nilgiri hills, Silent Valley, and Wayanad wildlife sanctuaries. It supports critical populations of endemic fauna including the Nilgiri Tahr, lion-tailed macaque, and Asian elephant. Nokrek is located in Meghalaya, Similipal in Odisha, and Achanakmar in central India. Montane ecosystems preserve unique regional biodiversity.