Ramsar Sites: Chhari-Dhand and Patna Bird Sanctuary Added, Total 98
Why in the news
Two more Indian wetlands have been recognised as Ramsar sites just before World Wetlands Day, observed on 2 February. The additions lift the national count to 98.
Key facts
- Chhari-Dhand lies in Kutch district, Gujarat, between the Banni grasslands and salt flats. It is a seasonal wetland that swells to nearly 80 sq km in the monsoon.
- It is the only Conservation Reserve in Gujarat and shelters about 30,000 Common Cranes each year, besides flamingos and the critically endangered Sociable Lapwing.
- Patna Bird Sanctuary is in the Jalesar subdivision of Etah district, Uttar Pradesh, and covers just over 1 sq km.
- It records 178 bird species and 252 plant species, and BirdLife International lists it as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area.
- Winter visitors include the Rosy Pelican, Eurasian Spoonbill and Northern Pintail.
| Site | State | District |
|---|---|---|
| Chhari-Dhand | Gujarat | Kutch |
| Patna Bird Sanctuary | Uttar Pradesh | Etah |
About the Ramsar Convention
The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty on wetlands, signed in 1971 at Ramsar in Iran. India became a party on 1 February 1982. World Wetlands Day is marked every year on 2 February.
Exam angle
- Remember the new sites with their states: Gujarat (Chhari-Dhand) and Uttar Pradesh (Patna).
- Current total is 98 Ramsar sites.
- Static facts: Ramsar treaty year 1971, India’s accession year 1982.