Which one of the following biosphere reserves in India is not included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves?

Introduction / Context:

This question focuses on Indian environmental conservation, specifically the World Network of Biosphere Reserves under the Man and the Biosphere Programme of UNESCO. Some Indian biosphere reserves have been recognised internationally and included in this global network, while others remain only nationally designated. Knowing which reserves are in the network is a common topic in exams related to environment and general studies.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• India has established several biosphere reserves to conserve ecosystems and promote sustainable development.
• Some of these, such as Nilgiri, Sundarbans, Gulf of Mannar and Nanda Devi, have become part of the World Network.
• Corbett National Park is a famous tiger reserve and national park that is not necessarily designated as a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
• We assume an exam context where certain named biosphere reserves are clearly listed as part of the World Network.

Concept / Approach:

A biosphere reserve is a large protected area that includes core, buffer and transition zones, designed to balance conservation with sustainable use. The World Network of Biosphere Reserves is a list maintained by UNESCO, recognising sites that meet international criteria. Many well known Indian reserves like Nilgiri, Sundarbans, Nanda Devi and Gulf of Mannar are included in this network. The approach is to identify which option among the list is not known primarily as a UNESCO recognised biosphere reserve in standard exam references.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Lists of Indian biosphere reserves recognised by UNESCO commonly mention Nilgiri, Nanda Devi, Gulf of Mannar, Sundarbans and a few others like Pachmarhi and Nokrek. Jim Corbett National Park is famous for Project Tiger and wildlife tourism, but it is not typically counted among the UNESCO designated biosphere reserves in standard competitive exam material. This difference between national park status and biosphere reserve status supports the identification of Corbett as the correct option for this question.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve is internationally known for its mangrove forests and tiger population and is listed under the World Network. Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is recognised for its rich marine biodiversity and coral reefs. Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve in Uttarakhand is a high altitude site included in the UNESCO network. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala is a well known part of the network and was among the earliest to receive this recognition. Therefore these four options are part of the World Network and do not satisfy the question requirement.

Common Pitfalls:

Students may confuse national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and biosphere reserves because many protected areas have overlapping names and designations. Some may pick Sundarbans or Gulf of Mannar mistakenly if they have not carefully studied the UNESCO list. Another pitfall is to assume that any globally famous park like Corbett must automatically be in the World Network, which is not necessarily true. Distinguishing between national level designations and UNESCO recognition helps avoid these errors.

Final Answer:

The biosphere reserve not included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves is Corbett Biosphere Reserve.