<h4>Introduction to Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve</h4><p>The <strong>Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR)</strong> holds a significant position in India's conservation efforts.</p><p>It was the <strong>first biosphere reserve</strong> to be established in the country, setting a precedent for future conservation initiatives.</p><h4>Establishment and Recognition</h4><div class="info-box"><strong>Year of Establishment:</strong> 1986<br><strong>Status:</strong> India's First Biosphere Reserve</div><p>Beyond its national importance, the <strong>Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve</strong> also gained international recognition.</p><p>It is notably <strong>India’s first biosphere reserve</strong> to be included under <strong>UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme</strong>.</p><h4>Geographical Spread</h4><p>The reserve covers a vast geographical area, extending across multiple states in Southern India.</p><div class="info-box"><strong>States Covered:</strong><ul><li><strong>Tamil Nadu</strong></li><li><strong>Karnataka</strong></li><li><strong>Kerala</strong></li></ul></div><p>This multi-state span highlights its ecological diversity and the collaborative conservation efforts required for its management.</p><h4>Significance of Being First</h4><div class="key-point-box">Being the <strong>first biosphere reserve</strong> in India, the <strong>NBR</strong> served as a pioneering model for subsequent conservation zones. Its inclusion in the <strong>UNESCO MAB Programme</strong> further cemented its global importance for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.</div><div class="exam-tip-box">For <strong>UPSC Prelims</strong>, remember the year of establishment (<strong>1986</strong>), its status as <strong>India's first</strong>, and the <strong>three states</strong> it covers. Also, note its connection to <strong>UNESCO's MAB Programme</strong> for international recognition.</div>