Four more wetlands declared Ramsar Sites in India

Ahead of World Wetlands Day on February 2, 2025, India has added four new Ramsar sites, bringing the total to 89.

The newly designated Ramsar sites include: 1. Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu): 2. Therthangal Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu):

3. Khecheopalri Wetland (Sikkim): First Ramsar site in Sikkim. 4. Udhwa Lake (Jharkhand): First Ramsar site in Jharkhand.

Tamil Nadu now leads with 20 Ramsar sites, making it the state with the highest number of Ramsar sites in India.

About Ramsar sites Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance designated under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.

Overview: Convention: Named after the city of Ramsar in Iran, where the convention was signed in 1971. Purpose: To promote the conservation and wise use of wetlands to maintain their ecological character.

Criteria for Designation: Biodiversity: Wetlands that support a significant number of species and subspecies of plants and animals. Ecological Character: Wetlands that play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological character of the region.

Rare Species: 

Wetlands that provide habitat for rare, vulnerable, or endangered species. Water Supply: Wetlands that are important for water supply, including groundwater recharge.

Fisheries: 

Wetlands that are important for fisheries, spawning grounds, and nursery areas.

Global Importance:

 Ecosystem Services: Wetlands provide essential ecosystem services such as water purification, flood control, and climate regulation.

Cultural Significance: Many wetlands have cultural, historical, and recreational value.

Ramsar Sites in Karnataka: Karnataka is home to 4 Ramsar Sites, which are wetlands of international importance.

2. Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve: 

 Situated in the Bellary district, this wetland is an irrigation tank-built centuries ago and is home to a diverse range of bird species.

3. Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve: Located in the Gadag district, this human-made wetland is a significant wintering ground for migratory birds, including the Bar-headed goose.

4. Aghanashini Estuary: Located in the Uttara Kannada district, this estuary supports over 66 waterbird species and provides various ecosystem services, including flood and erosion risk mitigation.