Which Biosphere Reserves of India term is correctly identified by “montane shola-grassland and tropical forest habitats occur within it” and “it was India's first designated biosphere reserve”?

Correct Answer: Option C — Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is correct because it is montane shola-grassland and tropical forest habitats occur within it. Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is also specifically associated with it was India's first designated biosphere reserve. Two additional identifying facts are that Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is montane shola-grassland and tropical forest habitats occur within it and Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is associated with it was India's first designated biosphere reserve. Why the other options are incorrect: • Option A — Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve: Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is alpine meadows, glaciers and rugged mountain habitats are prominent. • Option B — Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve: Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangroves are important ecosystems. • Option D — Sundarban Biosphere Reserve: Sundarban Biosphere Reserve is tidal creeks, mudflats and mangrove islands dominate the landscape. It is incorrect here because its separate identifying association is cyclones and salinity are major ecological pressures. Exam Takeaway: Connect Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve with “montane shola-grassland and tropical forest habitats occur within it” and “it was India's first designated biosphere reserve”.