Ramsar Sites and Wetlands in India (Environment and Ecology)

03.11.2025

Ramsar Sites and Wetlands in India
(Environment and Ecology)

Context

India now hosts 94 Ramsar Sites, ranking third globally and first in Asia under the Ramsar Convention. This achievement reflects India’s strong commitment to conserving diverse wetland ecosystems that sustain biodiversity, water security, and climate resilience.

About Ramsar Sites

Definition and Importance:
 A Ramsar Site is a wetland of international importance designated under the Ramsar Convention. These include lakes, marshes, mangroves, estuaries, coral reefs, and man-made wetlands. They play key roles in groundwater recharge, flood control, and as habitats for migratory birds.
 Ramsar recognition ensures international cooperation, conservation funding, and protection from degradation and encroachment.

Convention Background:

• Signed in 1971 at Ramsar, Iran.
   
• India joined in 1982, aligning with global wetland conservation efforts.
   

First Ramsar Sites (1981):

• Chilika Lake, Odisha – Asia’s largest brackish lagoon.
   
• Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan – a UNESCO World Heritage bird sanctuary.
   

Key Facts and Developments

Current Status:

• Total Ramsar Sites: 94
   
• Global Rank: 3rd (after the UK and Mexico)
   
• Asian Rank: 1st
   

State Distribution:

• Tamil Nadu leads with 16 sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh.
   
• In 2025, Bihar added three new Ramsar Sites — Udaipur Jheel, Gokul Jalashya, and Gogabil Lake, the last being a natural oxbow lake in Katihar district.
   

Emerging Candidates:

• Romari Dondhwa Wetland (Assam) – proposed for Ramsar status; supports over 120 bird species and forms a natural corridor between Kaziranga and Orang reserves.
   

Ecological and Strategic Importance

• Biodiversity: Supports migratory birds, fish, amphibians, and aquatic flora.
   
• Hydrology: Recharges groundwater, mitigates floods and droughts.
   
• Climate Role: Stores carbon and aids climate adaptation.
   
• Livelihoods: Provides water, food, and employment for millions.
   

Government Initiatives

• National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA): Integrates lake and wetland conservation.
   
• Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017: Provides legal protection and promotes wise use.
   
• Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Encourages community-driven water conservation.
   
• Amrit Dharohar Scheme (2023): Promotes sustainable wetland management through community participation.
   

Conclusion

With 94 Ramsar Sites, India showcases a strong model of wetland conservation and ecological sustainability. Safeguarding these ecosystems is vital for biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable development. Continued focus on scientific management, policy synergy, and local engagement will ensure these wetlands remain thriving natural assets for the future.