Why in News

India has strengthened its commitment to wetland conservation by adding Siliserh Lake in Rajasthan and Kopra Jalashay in Chhattisgarh to the list of Ramsar Sites—wetlands recognised for their global ecological importance under the Ramsar Convention. With this inclusion, the total number of Ramsar Sites in India has risen to 96.

Importance of Wetlands

Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth. They play a vital role in:

• Water purification and groundwater recharge
• Flood moderation and climate regulation
• Carbon storage
• Supporting biodiversity, including migratory birds
• Sustaining livelihoods through fisheries, agriculture, and tourism

Despite their importance, wetlands worldwide face threats from urbanisation, pollution, climate change, and unsustainable land use—making their conservation a global priority.

The Ramsar Convention

The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands was adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, with the aim of conserving wetlands of international importance and promoting their “wise use”—sustainable utilisation without degrading ecological character.

India became a signatory to the convention on 1 February 1982, recognising the ecological, cultural, and economic value of its wetlands.

What are Ramsar Sites?

Ramsar Sites are wetlands designated as being of international importance based on criteria such as:

• Supporting vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered species
• Representing rare or unique wetland types
• Hosting significant populations of waterbirds
• Providing essential ecosystem services

Both natural and human-made wetlands can qualify for Ramsar status.

Newly Designated Ramsar Sites

1. Siliserh Lake, Rajasthan

• Location: Alwar district
• Type: Human-made freshwater lake
• Ecological Setting:
  • Located within the buffer zone of Sariska Tiger Reserve
  • Situated in a semi-arid region, where water availability is limited

Historical Background
Siliserh Lake was constructed in 1845 by Maharaja Vinay Singh to supply drinking water to Alwar city.

Ecological Importance

• Acts as a critical water source in a water-scarce landscape
• Supports groundwater recharge and local livelihoods
• Provides habitat for diverse flora and fauna

Notable Fauna

• Vulnerable: River Tern
• Endangered / Threatened: Tiger, Black Stork (Ciconia nigra)

2. Kopra Jalashay, Chhattisgarh

• Location: Near Bilaspur
• Type: Reservoir (man-made wetland)
• Hydrological Setting: Upper catchments of the Mahanadi River

Ecological Importance

• Enhances river basin connectivity
• Supports over 60 migratory and resident bird species
• Serves as an important nesting, feeding, and stopover site

Notable Fauna

• Vulnerable: Greater Spotted Eagle (Aquila clanga)
• Endangered: Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus)

Kopra Jalashay is the first Ramsar Site in Chhattisgarh, marking a major milestone for the state’s wetland conservation efforts.

Significance of Ramsar Designation

The designation of wetlands as Ramsar Sites brings multiple benefits:

• International Recognition: Highlights the global ecological value of the sites
• Conservation Commitment: Strengthens India’s obligations under the Ramsar Convention
• Access to Support: Facilitates technical assistance, funding, and capacity building
• Sustainable Management: Promotes balanced use that benefits both people and nature
• Biodiversity Protection: Safeguards habitats for threatened and migratory species

Ramsar Sites in India: A Growing Network

As of 2025, India has 96 Ramsar Sites, spanning diverse ecosystems—from high-altitude Himalayan lakes and Gangetic floodplains to mangroves of the Sundarbans and coastal lagoons of southern India. This expanding network reflects India’s proactive role in global wetland conservation.

Ramsar Sites In India – State-wise List