Ramsar Sites: Patna and Chhari Dhand Added, India at 98
Why in the news
Two more Indian wetlands were declared Ramsar sites ahead of World Wetlands Day 2026, lifting the national tally to 98.
Key facts
- Patna Bird Sanctuary (Etah, Uttar Pradesh): 108 hectares, set up 1991; also called Patna Vihar.
- Chhari Dhand (Kutch, Gujarat): seasonal desert wetland between Banni Grasslands and Rann of Kutch.
| Site | Notable species |
|---|---|
| Patna | Lesser Whistling Duck, Graylag Goose, Ruddy Shelduck, Gadwall, Eurasian Wigeon, Northern Pintail |
| Chhari Dhand | Dalmatian Pelican, Oriental Darter, Black-necked Stork, Indian Skimmer, flamingos, cranes |
About the Ramsar Convention
- Global treaty for wise use of wetlands, adopted 1971 at Ramsar, Iran; India a party since 1 February 1982.
- Chhari means salty and Dhand means shallow wetland.
Exam angle
- India’s Ramsar total: 98.
- Chhari Dhand is fed by north-flowing rivers and hosts migratory birds in monsoon and winter.