- India is a signatory to the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
- Since becoming a party to the convention in 1982, India has actively contributed to the preservation of wetland ecosystems.
- Between 1982 and 2013, India added a total of 26 sites to the list of Ramsar sites. However, from 2014 to 2022, the country accelerated its efforts and added 49 new wetlands to the list, bringing the total to 75 sites covering an area of 13,26,677 hectares.
- Among the states, Tamil Nadu leads with the highest number of Ramsar sites (14), followed by Uttar Pradesh (10).
- In 2024, India further expanded its list of Ramsar sites by adding five more wetlands, bringing the total count to 80.
- The newly designated wetlands are Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve, Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve, and Aghanashini Estuary from Karnataka, and Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary and Longwood Shola Reserve Forest from Tamil Nadu.
- These additions underscore India’s commitment to the conservation and protection of its invaluable wetland ecosystems.
Here’s a compilation of Ramsar sites (Wetlands) in India, listed state-wise:
Jammu and Kashmir:
- Hokera Wetland
- Surinsar-Mansar Lakes
- Wular Lake
- Tsomoriri Lake
- Hygam Wetland Conservation Reserve
- Shallbugh Wetland Conservation Reserve
- Tso Kar Wetland Complex (UT of Ladakh)
Punjab:
- Beas Conservation Reserve
- Harike Wetlands
- Kanjli Wetland
- Keshopur-Miani Community Reserve
- Nangal Wildlife Sanctuary
- Ropar Wetland
Himachal Pradesh:
- Chandra Taal
- Pong Dam Lake
- Renuka Lake
Uttarakhand:
- Asan Barrage
Rajasthan:
- Keoladeo National Park
- Sambhar Lake
Uttar Pradesh:
- Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary
- Parvati Agra Bird Sanctuary
- Saman Bird Sanctuary
- Samaspur Bird Sanctuary
- Sandi Bird Sanctuary
- Sarsai Nawar Jheel
- Sur Sarovar
- Upper-Ganga River (Brijghat to Narora Stretch)
- Haiderpur Wetland
- Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary
Bihar:
- Kanwar Lake or Kabal Taal
West Bengal:
- East Kolkata Wetlands
- Sunderban Wetland
Odisha:
- Chilika Lake
- Bhitarkanika Mangroves
- Satkosia Gorge
- Tampara Lake
- Hirakud Reservoir
- Ansupa Lake
Madhya Pradesh:
- Yashwant Sagar
- Bhoj Wetlands
- Sirpur Wetland
- Sakhya Sagar
Gujarat:
- Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
- Thol Lake Wildlife Sanctuary
- Wadhvana Wetland
- Khijadia Wildlife Sanctuary
Maharashtra:
- Nandur Madhameshwar
- Lonar Lake
- Thane Creek
Andhra Pradesh:
- Kolleru Lake
Tamil Nadu:
- Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary
- Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary
- Karikili Bird Sanctuary
- Pallikaranai Marsh Reserve Forest
- Pichavaram Mangrove
- Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve
- Vembannur Wetland Complex
- Vellode Bird Sanctuary
- Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
- Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary
- Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary
- Suchindram Theroor Wetland Complex
- Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary
- Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary
- Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary
- Longwood Shola Reserve Forest
Kerala:
- Vembanad Kol Wetland
- Sasthamkotta Lake
- Ashtamudi Wetland
Assam:
- Deepor Beel
Tripura:
- Rudrasagar Lake
Manipur:
- Loktak Lake
Haryana:
- Sultanpur National Park
- Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary
Karnataka:
- Ranganathituu Bird Sanctuary
- Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve
- Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve
- Aghanashini Estuary
Goa:
- Nanda Lake
Mizoram:
- Pala Wetland
FAQs about Ramsar Sites in India
1. What are Ramsar Sites?
Ramsar Sites are wetlands designated under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty aimed at the conservation and sustainable use of wetland ecosystems. These sites are recognized for their ecological significance and are protected under international cooperation.
2. How many Ramsar Sites does India have?
As of 2024, India has a total of 80 Ramsar Sites covering an area of 13,26,677 hectares. These sites are distributed across various states and union territories of India.
3. Which state in India has the highest number of Ramsar Sites?
Tamil Nadu leads with the highest number of Ramsar Sites in India, boasting 14 designated wetlands. It is followed by Uttar Pradesh, which has 10 Ramsar Sites.
4. What is the significance of Ramsar Sites?
Ramsar Sites play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity, maintaining water quality, providing habitat for numerous species, and offering various ecosystem services. They also serve as vital stopover points for migratory birds and contribute to flood control and groundwater recharge.
5. How does India contribute to Ramsar Sites conservation?
India actively participates in the conservation and management of Ramsar Sites through various initiatives, including habitat restoration, wildlife protection, community engagement, and sustainable resource management. The country’s efforts aim to ensure the long-term health and integrity of these valuable wetland ecosystems.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
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