<h4>Protected Areas within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve</h4><p>The <strong>Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR)</strong> is a critical ecological region in India, renowned for its rich biodiversity. Within its expansive boundaries, several key <strong>Protected Areas (PAs)</strong> play a vital role in conserving the unique flora and fauna of the Western Ghats.</p><div class="key-point-box">These Protected Areas are crucial for maintaining ecological balance, protecting endangered species, and serving as important research sites for biodiversity studies.</div><h4>Key Protected Areas in NBR</h4><p>The <strong>Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve</strong> encompasses a network of nationally significant wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. These areas are managed under various conservation frameworks to ensure the long-term survival of their ecosystems.</p><ul><li><strong>Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary</strong>: Located in Tamil Nadu, it is a significant tiger reserve and home to diverse wildlife.</li><li><strong>Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary</strong>: Situated in Kerala, it forms a contiguous protected forest area with Bandipur and Mudumalai.</li><li><strong>Bandipur National Park</strong>: A prominent tiger reserve in Karnataka, known for its large elephant population.</li><li><strong>Nagarhole National Park (Rajiv Gandhi National Park)</strong>: Also in Karnataka, it's a vital tiger and elephant habitat.</li><li><strong>Mukurthi National Park</strong>: Found in Tamil Nadu, it's specifically established to protect the Nilgiri Tahr.</li><li><strong>Silent Valley National Park</strong>: Located in Kerala, famous for its pristine tropical evergreen rainforests and high biodiversity.</li></ul><div class="exam-tip-box"><strong>UPSC Prelims Tip:</strong> Remember the states in which each of these protected areas is located. Questions often test geographical locations and specific species protected within these parks.</div>