Correct Answer: Option A — Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve. Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is correct because it is a high-Himalayan biosphere reserve in Uttarakhand. Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is also specifically associated with alpine meadows, glaciers and rugged mountain habitats are prominent. Two additional identifying facts are that Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is alpine meadows, glaciers and rugged mountain habitats are prominent and Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve is associated with altitudinal zonation supports varied Himalayan biodiversity. Why the other options are incorrect: • Option B — Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve: Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve is a marine biosphere reserve along the Tamil Nadu coast. It is incorrect here because its separate identifying association is coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangroves are important ecosystems. • Option C — Sundarban Biosphere Reserve: Sundarban Biosphere Reserve is a deltaic mangrove biosphere reserve in West Bengal. It is incorrect here because its separate identifying association is tidal creeks, mudflats and mangrove islands dominate the landscape. • Option D — Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve: Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve is a biosphere reserve in Madhya Pradesh. It is incorrect here because its separate identifying association is Satpura National Park, Bori Sanctuary and Pachmarhi Sanctuary are associated protected areas. Exam Takeaway: Connect Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve with “a high-Himalayan biosphere reserve in Uttarakhand” and “alpine meadows, glaciers and rugged mountain habitats are prominent”.
