Correct Option
The correct option is It was designated in the year 2000.
Explanation
The Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve is a high-altitude protected area located in the Himalayan range. It is renowned for its unique biodiversity, encompassing a gradient of ecological zones from sub-tropical to alpine, and holds significant cultural value for the local communities.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement It is located in Arunachal Pradesh. is Incorrect. The biosphere reserve is located in the state of Sikkim, not Arunachal Pradesh. It covers a significant portion of the North and West Sikkim districts.
- Statement It was designated in the year 2000. is Correct. The Government of India officially designated Khangchendzonga as a Biosphere Reserve on February 7, 2000. It was later included in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves in 2018.
- Statement It is a marine biosphere reserve. is Incorrect. It is a terrestrial biosphere reserve characterized by high peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows. Marine biosphere reserves (e.g., Gulf of Mannar) are situated in coastal or oceanic environments.
- Statement It is located in the Western Ghats. is Incorrect. The reserve is situated in the Himalayas (specifically the Central Himalayas), which is a distinct biodiversity hotspot separate from the Western Ghats.
Key Takeaway: Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve is located in Sikkim and was designated in 2000. It is also India's first and only Mixed Heritage site on the UNESCO World Heritage List (inscribed in 2016).