Nokrek Biosphere Reserve to be under UNESCO global map

Shillong, Oct 11 (UNI) The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has decided to include Nokrek Biosphere Reserve in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills under UNESCO Global Map Network.

The UNESCO took this decision after a team of scientists from the Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata forwarded its name for inclusion in the Global map network.

Recently, a team of researchers headed by Deputy Director and Principal Investigator Dr H S Debnath told UNI in Tura that the ''Nokrek Biosphere Reserve has a large number of animals including mammals, reptiles, avi-fauna and invertebrate groups.'' During their visit to the biosphere, Dr Debnath said that his team observed that a detailed scientific study on fauna was required.

He added that the reserve, with its unique bio-diversity, natural protective areas amidst the tribal people culture, needs immense research. Meanwhile, the team has collected some samples of fossils which they would handover to the Zoological Survey of India for studies.

Nokrek Biosphere Reserve would be the fourth biosphere reserve in India after Nilgiri, Sunderban and Manas Biosphere Reserve. There are altogether 14 biosphere reserves in India.

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