India’s commitment to wetland conservation has reached a significant milestone with the addition of three new Ramsar sites, bringing the total to 85. The newly designated wetlands are Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary and Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, along with Tawa Reservoir in Madhya Pradesh.
These additions underscore the country’s ongoing efforts to protect and manage its rich biodiversity and vital ecosystems.
59 NEW SITES ADDED FROM 2014-2024
India has been a contracting party to the Ramsar Convention since 1982, which aims to conserve and sustainably manage wetlands worldwide. Between 1982 and 2013, India added 26 sites to the Ramsar list. However, the decade from 2014 to 2024 has seen a remarkable policy push from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, resulting in the addition of 59 new wetlands to the list.
IMPACT OF RAMSAR DESIGNATION
Ramsar sites are recognized for their international importance in terms of biodiversity, ecosystem services, and cultural value. The inclusion of these sites not only brings global recognition but also aids in securing resources and support for their conservation. With the latest additions, the total area covered by Ramsar sites in India has reached 1,358,067.757 hectares, marking a significant achievement in wetland management.
NANJARAYAN BIRD SANCTUARY: A BIODIVERSITY HAVEN
Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary, located in the Tiruppur district of Tamil Nadu, is a large, shallow wetland spanning 125.865 hectares. The lake, situated about 10 kilometres north of Tiruppur city, plays a crucial role in the region’s ecology, serving as a major water source for agriculture and contributing to groundwater recharge. The sanctuary was named after King Nanjarayan, who restored the lake centuries ago.
The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of species, including 191 species of birds, 87 species of butterflies, 7 species of amphibians, 21 species of reptiles, 11 species of small mammals, and 77 species of plants. This biodiversity makes the lake an essential feeding and nesting habitat for resident birds and a critical stopover for migratory species. The local community, in collaboration with the forest department, plays an active role in managing and protecting this vital ecosystem.
KAZHUVELI BIRD SANCTUARY: A KEY STOPOVER IN THE CENTRAL ASIAN FLYWAY
Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary, declared the 16th bird sanctuary of Tamil Nadu in 2021, covers an area of 5,151.6 hectares. Located on the Coromandel Coast in Villupuram district, just north of Pondicherry, this brackish shallow lake is one of the largest wetlands in peninsular India. The lake is connected to the Bay of Bengal via the Uppukalli creek and the Edayanthittu Estuary, which makes it a vital habitat for both freshwater and brackish water species.
Kazhuveli lies in the Central Asian Flyway, making it an essential stopover site for migratory birds. The sanctuary supports a wide variety of avian species and serves as a breeding ground for fish and other aquatic life. It also plays a significant role in recharging aquifers and maintaining the region’s hydrological balance. Despite facing challenges like habitat degradation, efforts are underway to restore and conserve the area’s biodiversity, including the remnants of Tropical Dry Evergreen Forests.
TAWA RESERVOIR: A VITAL ECOSYSTEM IN MADHYA PRADESH
Tawa Reservoir, located near Itarsi town in Madhya Pradesh, was constructed at the confluence of the Tawa and Denwa rivers. The reservoir spans 20,050 hectares and serves multiple purposes, including irrigation, power generation, and aquaculture. It is the longest tributary of the Narmada River, originating from the Mahadeo hills and flowing through several districts before merging with the Narmada.
The Tawa Reservoir, which lies within the Satpura Tiger Reserve, forms the western boundary of the Satpura National Park and Bori Wildlife Sanctuary. The reservoir is a critical habitat for aquatic flora and fauna, supporting many rare and endangered species of plants, reptiles, and insects. It is also an important site for local and migratory birds, contributing to the region’s ecological, archaeological, and historical significance.
THE ROAD AHEAD: STRENGTHENING WETLAND CONSERVATION
The addition of these three new Ramsar sites is a testament to the robust policy framework and active community involvement in wetland conservation in India. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change continues to play a pivotal role in driving these initiatives, ensuring that India’s wetlands are preserved for future generations.
While the Ramsar designation brings international recognition and support, the real challenge lies in the effective management and protection of these sites. Ongoing threats such as habitat degradation, pollution, and climate change require comprehensive strategies that involve all stakeholders, including local communities, government agencies, and conservation organizations.
With 85 Ramsar sites now under its belt, India has made significant strides in wetland conservation. The recent inclusion of Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary, Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary, and Tawa Reservoir highlights the country’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage. As India continues to expand its network of protected wetlands, the focus must remain on sustainable management practices that balance ecological preservation with the needs of local communities.
