It is said to be the only place in the world to house the mother plant of citrus-Indica (orange). And for this, the world's first citrus gene sanctuary was established in this reserve. Now, the Union Ministry of Forests and Environment has forwarded the nomination of Nokrek Biosphere Reserve in Garo Hills of Meghalaya for UNESCO recognition on the world network of biosphere reserves. Foresters say that forwarding of the nomination implies that the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve is admitted to be a pristine area and a biodiversity hotspot. Teeming with wildlife at an altitude of 1,418 metres above sea level, an area of 47 sq kms around Nokrek has been declared a National Park. The entire Nokrek range, an area of about 800 sq km, has also been demarcated as a biosphere reserve where many rare species of plants and animals are found. The development comes after a research study conducted by the Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata. The research team headed by Deputy Director and Principal Investigator, Dr H S Debnath conducted a study in the reserve and observed that various species of plants were yet to be identified, perhaps due to lack of research. The team emphasized that the reserve with its unique bio-diversity, natural protective areas amidst the tribal culture needed immense research which would bring out new scientific knowledge. "The nomination is a shot in arm for the conservation of natural resources and varied human culture of the area as funds for protection and conservation of Nokrek and the people inhabiting the neighbouring area would be available from international agencies,' said State's chief conservator of Forests Sunil Kumar. Kumar said the mother germplasm of Citrus-Indica, considered to be the progenitor of all other varieties of citrus plants in the world