Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve was established in
Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, declared in 1986 under Man and Biosphere Programme MAB, became India's first biosphere reserve. Extending over 5520 km² across trijunction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka in Western Ghats, it includes Mudumalai, Wayanad, Bandipur, and Silent Valley protected areas. Core zone consists of evergreen shola forests, high-altitude grasslands, home to Nilgiri tahr, lion-tailed macaque, and over 3000 flowering plants. Establishment pioneered integration of tribal welfare with core protection. Examinations emphasize this concept because it underpins correct interpretation of
Ref: UNESCO MAB Directory Nilgiri 1986 First Biosphere; MoEFCC List Nilgiri Established 1986