India achieved the significant milestone in the environmental conservation as the Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary which is popularly known as the Surha Tal in the state of Uttar Pradesh has become the 100th Ramsar Sites of the India. This was announced on the World Environment Day 2026 and it marks the another achievements of the India’s efforts to protect the protect wetlands and biodiversity. Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed the happiness after the recognition and lauds the country’s commitment to preserving the ecologically important ecosystems.
India Reaches the Landmark of the 100 Ramsar Sites
The designation of the Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary as a Ramsar Site has elevated the India’s total count of internationally recognized wetlands to the 100.
This achievement showcases the country’s growing focus on to the wetland conservation and sustainable environmental management.
This recognition was granted under the Ramsar Convention it is an international treaty which is dedicated to the conservation and the wise use of wetlands.
The addition of Surha Tal further will further strengthens the India’s position as one of the leading nations in to the wetland conservation globally.
About Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary (Surha Tal)
Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary which is also known as the Surha Tal is located into the Ballia district of Uttar Pradesh.
This wetland is an important habitat for the numerous species of the migratory and resident birds.
This sanctuary plays the vital role to maintaining the ecological balance by supporting the aquatic biodiversity, regulating water systems and providing the breeding and feeding grounds for the various bird species.
PM Modi’s Response After This Achievement
Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi had welcomed the inclusion of the sanctuary in the Ramsar List and he praised the efforts of all the conservationists, local communities and government agencies who are involved in to protecting wetlands.
The Prime Minister has also consistently highlighted the importance of the preserving biodiversity and safeguarding the critical ecosystems.
The latest recognition also aligns with the India’s broader environmental goals and commitment towards the sustainable development.
About Ramsar Sites
A Ramsar Site is a wetland recognized under the Ramsar Convention (1971) for its international importance in to conserving the biodiversity and sustaining ecological balance.
These wetlands provides the critical habitats for migratory birds, endangered species and unique flora and fauna.
Earlier India had 99 Ramsar Sites spread across the 28 states but after the inclusion of the Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary and tally now reached to the 100.
Latest Additions of Ramsar Sites (2025-2026)
- April 2026: Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary (UP) – It is the 99th Ramsar Site
- January 2026: Patna Bird Sanctuary (UP) and Chhari-Dhand (Gujarat).
- December 2025: Siliserh Lake (Rajasthan) and Kopra Jalashay (Chhattisgarh).
