The Indian authorities have added four new wetland sites to the prestigious Ramsar list as a landmark achievement in the conservation of wetland.
- Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
- Therthangal Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
- Khecheopalri Wetland (Sikkim)
- Udhwa Lake (Jharkhand)
This brings the total number of Ramsar sites in India to 89, making it a state alongside the large Ramsar wetland in Orient ahead of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) (82 sites). Understanding the Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary in Jharkhand’s Sahibganj district is particularly important since it is the first Ramsar site. The current milestones highlight the development of knowledge on wetland conservation and its essential role in supporting biodiversity, climate resilience, and renewable growth.
What is a Ramsar Site?
The Ramsar Convention, an international agreement negotiated in 1971 at Ramsar, the Islamic Republic of Iran, provides that the Ramsar Convention is of global importance. That the Convention objectives recognize their ecological, hydrological, and socio-economic importance in order to promote conservation and renewable use of wetland.
Since then, India has been a party to the Ramsar Convention and has actively participated in determining and securing wetland. These communities support migratory birds, fish, amphibians, and other animals while also playing an essential role in.
- Groundwater recharge
- Flood control
- Carbon sequestration
- Water purification
Tamil Nadu Leads with the Most Ramsar Sites in India
- With the recent addition, Tamil Nadu now has 20 Ramsar sites, making it the highest number of internationally recognised wetland in India. The two new bird Sanctuarys, Sakkarakottai and Therthangal, add to the situation of Tamil Nadu in terms of biodiversity hot spots.
- Meanwhile, Sikkim and Jharkhand have also set a record by acquiring the first Ramsar site, a significant step in conservation efforts in these countries.
Why is Udhwa Lake Important?
Ecological Significance
Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary, located in the district of Sahibganj, Jharkhand is one such bird sanctuary. It’s home to a couple of important water bodies.
- Patauda Lake
- Berhale Lake
Such wetland support is a key stopover and breeding evidence for migratory birds, particularly following the main Asian Flyway. The Sanctuary will be home to a variety of bird species, including.
Endangered greater adjutant stork
- Ruddy shelduck
- Indian spot-billed duck
- Egrets and herons
- Bar-headed geese
During the winter migration period, over 6,000 birds can be detected near Udhwa Lake, making it a major birding hot spot in Eastern Hindustan.
Hydrological and Climate Benefits
- Beyond its rich biodiversity, Udhwa Lake provides:
- Flood control: Acts as a natural buffer, preventing excessive flooding in nearby areas.
- Groundwater recharge: Helps maintain water tables, crucial for agriculture and drinking water supply.
- Carbon storage: Wetlands act as natural carbon sinks, mitigating climate change.
Why the Ramsar Designation Matters
The inclusion of Udhwa Lake in the Ramsar list brings numerous conservation and economic benefits:
1. Enhanced Conservation Efforts
- The designation brings international attention, which can lead to better funding and management strategies.
- Strengthened efforts to protect migratory birds and their habitats.
2. Boost to Ecotourism
- The Ramsar status will attract birdwatchers, researchers, and nature enthusiasts, boosting local tourism.
- Increased footfall can generate employment opportunities for local communities.
3. Climate Resilience and Sustainable Development
- Protecting wetlands helps mitigate climate change effects such as floods and droughts.
- Promotes sustainable development, ensuring that economic activities do not harm ecological balance.
- The Alliance habitat Reverend Bhupender Yadav, in his personal statement on Friday, underlined the harmonious development of Prakriti'(the environment ) and’Pragati'(growth), under the leadership of the finest pastor, Narendra Modi.
Relevance for Competitive Exam Aspirants
- The Ramsar Convention and the second Wetland of India will play a key role in the preparation for the UPSC, SSC, PCS, and other competitive examinations. Important marks for retention.
- India now has 89 Ramsar sites (highest in Asia).
- Tamil Nadu has the most Ramsar sites (20 in total).
- Jharkhand and Sikkim got their first Ramsar sites (Udhwa Lake and Khecheopalri Wetland).
- Ramsar Convention was signed in 1971 and India joined in 1982.
- World Wetlands Day is observed on February 2nd.
Conclusion
The historic achievement for Jharkhand has been the designation of Udhwa Lake as a Ramsar Site. This understanding will strengthen conservation efforts, increase ecotourism, and increase climate resilience. The increasing number of Ramsar sites in Bharat are testaments of their devotion to eco-friendly evolution and protection of biodiversity.
As wetland plays a key role in our atmosphere, it is necessary to continue to increase knowledge and capture activities to protect such invaluable environments.
