India has recently added three more wetlands to its list of Ramsar sites, bringing the total to 85. Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance, designated under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
Importance of Ramsar Sites
Ramsar sites play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. They support a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many endangered species. These wetlands also provide essential services such as water purification, flood control, and groundwater replenishment. Additionally, they are vital for the livelihoods of local communities, offering resources like fish and plants.
Recent Additions
The three new Ramsar sites in India are:
- Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu
- Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu
- Tawa Reservoir in Madhya Pradesh
Distribution Across India
India’s Ramsar sites are spread across 18 states, with Tamil Nadu having the highest number at 18 sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 10. These sites cover a diverse range of ecosystems, from high-altitude lakes in Ladakh to coastal wetlands in Tamil Nadu.
Notable Ramsar Sites
- Chilika Lake in Odisha: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, known for its bird sanctuary.
- Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan: A UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its avian population.
- Sundarbans Wetland in West Bengal: Part of the largest mangrove forest in the world.
Q.: What is the total number of Ramsar sites in India after added three more wetlands in August 2024?
A) 75
B) 80
C) 85
D) 90
Ans : C) 85
India has recently added three more wetlands to its list of Ramsar sites, bringing the total to 85.
Q.: Which Ramsar site in India is known as Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon?
A) Keoladeo National Park
B) Sundarbans Wetland
C) Chilika Lake
D) Loktak Lake
Ans : C) Chilika Lake
Chilika Lake in Odisha: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, known for its bird sanctuary.
