In India, ecologically unique and biodiversity-rich regions are legally protected as
a. Biosphere reserves
b. Hotspots
c. National parks
d. Sacred groves
e. Wildlife sanctuaries

Options

A. a, c and c
B. a, c and e
C. a, b, c and e
D. a, b, c, d and e

Answer

To answer the question "In India, ecologically unique and biodiversity-rich regions are legally protected as:", we need to analyze the options provided and identify which of them represent legally protected areas.

### Step 1: Understand the Terms
- **Biosphere Reserves**: These are areas designated to promote and protect biodiversity while allowing for sustainable development. They are legally protected.
- **Hotspots**: These are regions with a high level of endemic species and significant habitat loss. However, they are not legally protected areas.
- **National Parks**: These are protected areas established for the conservation of wildlife and natural resources. They are legally protected.
- **Sacred Groves**: These are patches of forest that are protected by local communities for religious and cultural reasons, but they are not legally protected by the government.
- **Wildlife Sanctuaries**: These are areas where animals are protected in their natural habitat. They are legally protected.

### Step 2: Identify Legally Protected Areas
From the definitions:
- **Legally Protected**: Biosphere reserves, National parks, and Wildlife sanctuaries.
- **Not Legally Protected**: Hotspots and Sacred groves.

### Step 3: Select the Correct Options
Given the analysis, the legally protected areas in India that are ecologically unique and biodiversity-rich are:
- **A. Biosphere reserves**
- **C. National parks**
- **E. Wildlife sanctuaries**

### Final Answer
The correct options are:
**a. Biosphere reserves, c. National parks, e. Wildlife sanctuaries.**

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