India Adds 99th Ramsar Site with Inclusion of Shekha Jheel in Uttar Pradesh

Honorable Minister of Environment Bhupender Yadav have announced the inclusion of Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh as the country’s 99th Ramsar site on April 22nd 2026. It is located in Aligarh and this recognition highlights the India’s growing commitment to protect the wetlands and biodiversity. After this addition Uttar Pradesh now has 12 Ramsar sites and also strengthen the position as a key state in wetland conservation.

Shekha Jheel Declared India’s 99th Ramsar Site

The designation of the Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary as a Ramsar site marks the milestone in India’s environmental journey.

This global recognition is given under the Ramsar Convention and which aims to conserve wetlands of international importance.

With this addition India’s total Ramsar sites reached to 99 and Uttar Pradesh’s count rises to 12.

The announcement also brings the India closer to achieving the historic milestone of 100 Ramsar sites.

Ecological Importance of Shekha Jheel

Shekha Jheel plays the important role to maintaining ecological balance. It also serves as the critical habitat for the migratory birds and also supports the diverse aquatic life.

The sanctuary is part of the Central Asian Flyway which is a major migratory route used by the birds traveling between northern breeding grounds and southern wintering areas.

Key species found here includes the,

• Bar-headed Goose
• Painted Stork
• Various species of ducks and waterfowl

This makes the wetland an important site for the avian biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Boost to Biodiversity, Livelihoods and Climate Security

The Ramsar designation is not just symbolic in nature but it brings multiple benefits.

Environmental Benefits

• Conservation of the wetland ecosystems
• Also provide protection to endangered and migratory species
• Support for the climate regulation and water security

Economic and Social Benefits

• It also promotes the eco-tourism.
• Also help to generate the of local employment opportunities.
• It is strengthening of community-based conservation efforts..

What is a Ramsar Site?

A Ramsar Site is the wetland which are recognized under the Ramsar Convention (1971).

These wetlands provides the crucial critical habitats for migratory birds, endangered species and supports the unique flora and fauna.

They also help in the groundwater recharge, flood control and the climate regulation.

With this addition India have the 99 Ramsar Sites and it spread across 28 states and union territories.