India has taken another significant step in global environmental conservation. Two ecologically rich wetlands one in the Gangetic plains and the other in the arid landscapes of Kutch have received international recognition. This development strengthens India’s position as a country increasingly committed to protecting wetlands and biodiversity under global frameworks. The Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch, Gujarat, have been officially designated as Ramsar wetlands, increasing India’s total Ramsar sites to 98.
What Is the Ramsar Convention?
- The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is an international treaty signed in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, for the conservation and wise use of wetlands.
- Ramsar sites are recognised for their global ecological importance, especially as habitats for waterfowl and biodiversity hotspots.
- India became a Ramsar signatory in 1982.
Patna Bird Sanctuary: A Haven for Avian Biodiversity
- Located in Etah, the Patna Bird Sanctuary is a freshwater wetland known for supporting hundreds of migratory and resident bird species.
- During winter months, the sanctuary attracts migratory birds from Central Asia and Siberia, making it a critical stopover and breeding ground.
- Its Ramsar recognition highlights its role in maintaining avian diversity in the Gangetic plains.
Chhari-Dhand, Kutch: A Unique Desert Wetland
- Chhari-Dhand, situated in the Kutch region, is a seasonal saline wetland within an arid landscape.
- Despite harsh climatic conditions, it supports rich wildlife, including migratory birds and desert fauna.
- The wetland is also home to species such as chinkara, wolves, caracal, desert cats, and desert foxes, along with several endangered bird species, making it ecologically unique.
India’s Expanding Ramsar Network
- With the addition of these two wetlands, India’s Ramsar network has expanded from 26 sites in 2014 to 98 in 2026, reflecting an increase of over 276 per cent.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav highlighted that this expansion reaffirms India’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection.
About Ramsar Sites
| Heading | Key Points |
| What is a Ramsar Site? | - A wetland designated under the Ramsar Convention (1971)
- Recognized for its international importance in biodiversity conservation and ecological balance
|
| Ramsar Convention | - Adopted in 1971 at Ramsar, Iran
- An international treaty for conservation and wise use of wetlands
|
| Importance of Ramsar Sites | - Conserve biodiversity and fragile ecosystems
- Protect habitats of migratory birds and endangered species
|
| Ecological Functions | - Groundwater recharge
- Flood control and storm regulation
- Climate regulation and carbon storage
|
Key Summary at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
| Why in News? | Two new wetlands added to Ramsar list |
| New Ramsar Sites | Patna Bird Sanctuary (UP), Chhari-Dhand (Gujarat) |
| Total Ramsar Sites in India | 98 |
| Convention Year | Ramsar Convention, 1971 |
| Key Importance | Migratory birds, biodiversity conservation |
Question
Q. Which two sites were recently designated as Ramsar wetlands in India?
A. Keoladeo and Sambhar
B. Loktak and Wular
C. Patna Bird Sanctuary and Chhari-Dhand
D. Pulicat and Chilika
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