India Designates Its 100th Ramsar Site: The Importance of Wetlands
Knowledge Nugget: India adds its 100th Ramsar site — Why are wetlands important?

Image: The Indian Express
On World Environment Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the addition of the Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary (Surha Tal) in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, as India's 100th Ramsar site. This highlights India's commitment to wetland conservation, crucial for biodiversity, climate resilience, and human livelihoods.
- 01The Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary covers 3,432.93 hectares and serves as a vital wintering ground for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway.
- 02Wetlands, covering only 6% of the Earth's surface, support nearly 40% of all plant and animal species and provide significant benefits to human populations.
- 03The Ramsar Convention, established in 1971, aims to conserve wetlands globally, with India joining in 1982 and designating its first sites shortly thereafter.
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On World Environment Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India has added its 100th Ramsar site, the Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary (Surha Tal) in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, to the list of Wetlands of International Importance. This milestone underscores India's dedication to wetland conservation, which is essential for maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. Wetlands are among the planet's most productive ecosystems, providing habitat for a vast array of species and offering crucial services such as flood mitigation, water purification, and carbon storage. Despite their importance, wetlands face significant threats, including urbanization, agriculture, and climate change, leading to a loss of approximately 400 million hectares since 1970. The Ramsar Convention, adopted in 1971, promotes the conservation of these vital ecosystems and has 172 signatory countries. India’s commitment to preserving its wetlands is vital not only for environmental health but also for supporting the livelihoods of millions who depend on these resources for agriculture and fisheries.
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The designation of the Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary as a Ramsar site will enhance conservation efforts and promote sustainable use of wetland resources in the region.
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