Mastering 85 Ramsar Wetland Sites in India UPSC Notes [2024]: Updated List

Mastering the 85 Ramsar Wetland Sites in India for upcoming competitive exams. In this article, we explore the definition and significance of Ramsar Sites, shedding light on their names and locations across different states in India.

The term “Ramsar Sites” originated when the International Treaty for the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Wetlands was signed in the Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971.

Understanding the ‘Ramsar Sites of India’ holds significance, especially for the upcoming competitive exams.

Therefore, aspirants preparing for these exams should familiarize themselves with information about Ramsar Sites and the Ramsar Convention. Continue reading to gather pertinent details about Ramsar Sites and access the comprehensive list of these designated areas.

Recent News about Ramsar Wetland Sites in India

At the end of 2023, there were 75 Ramsar sites in India. However, in January 2024, the Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, revealed five new Ramsar sites, recognized as Wetlands of International Importance.

In June 2024, two additional wetlands were declared by him, both located in Bihar. Thus, in 2024, a total of seven wetlands were added to the list of Ramsar sites.

On August 14, 2024, India’s Ministry of Environment declared the designation of three additional wetlands as Ramsar sites, increasing the total number in the country to 85.

With the addition of these newly declared Ramsar Sites, India now has a total of 85 wetlands under the Ramsar Convention.

Here is the list of the 3 newly declared wetlands:

Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)

Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)

Tawa Reservoir (Madhya Pradesh)

Number of Wetlands in India as of 2024

The Ramsar Convention, started in 1971, aims to protect and use wetlands wisely by working together locally, nationally, and globally for the sustainable development of our world.

To keep track of important changes that could affect wetlands, whether good or bad, Ramsar sites are carefully recorded in the Montreux Record.

In India, the Ramsar Convention began on February 1, 1982. Right now, India has the most designated important wetlands (Ramsar Sites) in South Asia, with a total of 85 sites.

List of 85 Ramsar Sites in India as of 2024

Ramsar Sites in India Map 2024

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State-wise List of Ramsar sites in India

Here’s a complete list of Ramsar sites in India, organized by state. This guide gives a detailed look at the wetlands recognized under the Ramsar Convention and highlights how each state helps protect these important ecosystems. It offers a great insight into India’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage.

State-wise Number of Ramsar Sites in India

Here is a compilation of the number of Ramsar Sites in each state across India:

Okay, now that you have the information about the number and list of wetlands in India under Ramsar conservation, continue reading the rest of this post to learn more about wetlands and key facts about them.

What is the Ramsar Convention?

The Ramsar Convention, also called the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, focuses on protecting and using wetlands wisely. It became official in 1975 after being agreed upon in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971.

This treaty helps countries work together to take care of wetlands and the plants and animals that rely on them. It reminds us how vital wetlands are for things like clean water, food, and dealing with climate change.

More than 255,897,678 ha hectares of wetland have been protected through this convention.

Why it’s called “Ramsar”

The term “Ramsar” comes from the city of Ramsar in Iran, where the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands was signed in 1971.

This international treaty aims to conserve and sustainably use wetlands, recognizing their ecological importance and the benefits they provide to biodiversity and human well-being.

What are the three pillars of the Ramsar Convention?

The three pillars of the Ramsar Convention, which form the foundation of its mission and objectives, are:

• Wise Use of Wetlands: This pillar emphasizes the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands to maintain their ecological character as determined by the conditions of the ecosystem.

• Designation of Wetlands of International Importance: Under this pillar, countries identify and designate suitable wetlands to be included in the Ramsar List, ensuring their effective management and conservation.

• International Cooperation: This pillar encourages collaboration among countries to support wetland conservation through sharing information, expertise, and policies, and by coordinating efforts on transboundary wetlands, shared water systems, and shared species.

These pillars guide the actions of the Contracting Parties to the convention in conserving wetlands and maximizing their ecological and socio-economic benefits sustainably.

What Does ‘Wise Use of Wetlands’ Mean?

The phrase “wise use of wetlands” means taking care of wetlands in a way that keeps them healthy and useful for both nature and people. This idea is a key part of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, an international agreement to protect and use wetlands sustainably.

Here’s what wise use involves:

• Protecting Wetlands: Making sure wetlands stay healthy while allowing people to use them in ways that don’t cause harm.

• Providing Benefits: Ensuring wetlands continue to offer important services like clean water, flood control, and habitats for animals.

• Creating Plans and Laws: Developing national plans, policies, and laws to protect wetlands.

• Educating People: Teaching the public about the importance of wetlands and how to protect them.

• Managing Wetlands: Creating management plans that consider the entire ecosystem, including the surrounding areas.

What are Wetlands?

Wetlands are diverse ecosystems characterized by areas of land that are saturated with water, either permanently or seasonally. The presence of water significantly influences soil development and the types of plant and animal communities living in and around the area.

Here are some key points about wetlands:

• Hydrology: Wetlands typically have standing water or soil saturated with water for at least part of the year.

• Soil: The soil in wetlands, known as hydric soil, is often low in oxygen (anoxic), which affects the decomposition process and the types of organisms that can live there.

• Vegetation: Plants found in wetlands, called hydrophytes, are adapted to grow in water-saturated soil conditions. They play a crucial role in the wetland’s ecological health.

• Biodiversity: Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems in the world, supporting a rich diversity of species, including many birds, fish, amphibians, and invertebrates.

• Ecosystem Services: They provide numerous valuable services such as water purification, flood protection, carbon storage, and habitats for wildlife.

• Types: There are various types of wetlands, including marshes, swamps, bogs, fens, and peatlands, each with distinct characteristics and ecological functions.

Wetlands are important not only for their ecological benefits but also for their cultural, scientific, and recreational value. They are critical habitats that require conservation and wise management to ensure their services are maintained for future generations.

Types of Wetlands under Ramsar Convention

Here is a list of water bodies recognized as wetlands under the Ramsar Convention.

• All lakes
• Rivers
• Underground aquifers
• Swamps and Marshes
• Wet grasslands
• Peatlands
• Oases
• Estuaries
• Deltas and tidal flats
• Mangroves and other coastal areas
• Coral reefs
• All human-made sites such as fishponds, rice paddies, reservoirs, and salt pans

✅ Read Also: List of Tiger Reserves in India: Complete Details

Major Significance of Wetlands

Wetlands are vital ecosystems that offer a multitude of benefits, both ecological and economic. Here’s an enhanced overview of their significance:

Ecosystem Services:

• Water Purification: Wetlands act as natural filters, removing pollutants and sediments from water.

• Climate Regulation: They store carbon, helping to mitigate climate change.

• Flood Mitigation: Wetlands absorb excess rainfall, reducing flood risks.

Human Uses:

• Agriculture: Wetlands support the cultivation of rice, a staple for over half the global population, and other crops like lotus and water chestnuts.

• Industry: They provide water for industrial processes and materials like jute fibers.

• Transportation: Wetlands serve as waterways for the movement of goods and people.

Biodiversity Hotspots:

• Nurseries for Wildlife: Many species breed and raise their young in the sheltered environment of wetlands.

• High Species Density: Wetlands often host dense populations of various animals, including endangered species.

Cultural and Recreational Value:

• Heritage Sites: Many wetlands are places of cultural significance and beauty.

• Recreation: They offer opportunities for activities like bird-watching and fishing.

In summary, wetlands are indispensable for their ecological functions, support for human livelihoods, and contribution to biodiversity. Their conservation is essential for maintaining these benefits for future generations.

World Wetland Day 2024

The convention also marks World Wetlands Day each year on February 2nd to remind everyone about the important role wetlands play for us and our planet.

What is the theme of World Wetland Day 2024?

The theme for World Wetlands Day in 2024 is “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing”.

This theme shows how crucial wetlands are for our well-being in different ways, like keeping us physically and mentally healthy, and protecting our environment.

It highlights how closely linked wetlands and human life are, as we rely on them for food, inspiration, and strength. This theme stresses the need to care for and protect our wetlands so that everyone can benefit.

A Timeline of India’s Ramsar Site Inclusions

Here’s the timeline of the addition of Ramsar Sites in India, organized by year:

July 2020

• Kanwar Lake or Kabal Taal – Bihar
• Sunderban Reserve Forest (Sunderban Wetlands) – Kolkata

November 2020

• Lonar Lake – Maharashtra
• Sur Sarovar (Keetham Lake) – Agra, Uttar Pradesh
• Asan Barrage – Uttarakhand

December 2020

• Tso Kar Wetland Complex – Ladakh

February 2nd, 2022

• Establishment of the Centre for Wetland Conservation & Management – Chennai

August 2021

• Sultanpur National Park – Gurugram, Haryana
• Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary – Jhajjar, Haryana
• Thol Lake Wildlife Sanctuary – Near Ahmedabad, Gujarat
• Wadhvana Wetland – Vadodara, Gujarat

December 2021

• Haiderpur Wetland – Uttar Pradesh

February 2nd (World Wetland Day) 2022

• Khijadia Wildlife Sanctuary – Gujarat
• Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary – Uttar Pradesh

July 2022

• Karikili Bird Sanctuary – Tamil Nadu
• Pallikaranai Marsh Reserve Forest – Tamil Nadu
• Pichavaram Mangrove – Tamil Nadu
• Sakhya Sagar – Madhya Pradesh
• Pala Wetlands – Mizoram

January 2024

• Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve – Karnataka
• Aghanashini Estuary – Karnataka
• Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve – Karnataka
• Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary – Tamil Nadu
• Longwood Shola Reserve Forest – Tamil Nadu

June 2024

• Nagi Bird Sanctuary – Bihar
• Nakti Bird Sanctuary – Bihar

August 2024

• Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
• Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
• Tawa Reservoir (Madhya Pradesh)

This timeline reflects the progressive efforts of India in conserving its wetlands and the growing recognition of these vital ecosystems. The Ramsar Convention plays a crucial role in the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands globally.

First Ramsar site in India

The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty aimed at conserving and sustainably using wetlands around the world. When a country joins the Convention, it must designate at least one wetland of international importance as a Ramsar Site.

Chilika Lake in Odisha and Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan hold the distinction of being recognized as the first Ramsar Sites of India in 1981.

Chilika Lake

• Location: Odisha
• Designation Date: October 1, 1981
• Area: 116,500 hectares
• Significance: Chilika Lake is the largest coastal lagoon in India and the second largest in the world. It supports a diverse range of fish and bird species, making it an important habitat for wildlife. The lake experiences seasonal fluctuations in salinity due to its connection with the Bay of Bengal.

Keoladeo National Park

• Location: Rajasthan
• Designation Date: October 1, 1981
• Area: 28,737 hectares
• Significance: Also known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Keoladeo National Park is famous for its rich avifauna and is a major center for ornithology. It provides a habitat for numerous migratory birds and is a popular destination for birdwatchers.

These sites play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of their regions and showcase India’s commitment to conserving its rich biodiversity. As of 2024, India has 85 Ramsar Sites.

Largest Ramsar site in India

The Sundarbans is the largest Ramsar site in India, designated on January 30, 2019. This vast mangrove forest spans across parts of India and Bangladesh, covering over 60% of India’s total mangrove forest area.

Location and Size

• Location: Southwestern part of the delta formed by the Rivers Ganges and Brahmaputra on the Bay of Bengal.
• Area: Approximately 423,000 hectares.

Unique Ecosystem

The Sundarbans is a unique ecosystem with a vast network of rivers, tributaries, and creeks. It is home to a significant population of Bengal tigers, which have developed unique aquatic hunting skills.

Biodiversity

The Sundarbans supports a wide variety of rare and globally threatened species, including:

• Critically Endangered Northern River Terrapin (Batagur baska)
• Endangered Irrawaddy Dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris)
• Vulnerable Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus)
• Two of the world’s four horseshoe crab species
• Eight of India’s 12 species of kingfisher

Ecological Importance

The Sundarbans plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region. It provides storm protection, water filtration, and serves as a nursery for fish and shellfish, sustaining the fisheries of the entire eastern coast of India.

Conservation Priority

Due to its unique habitat, rich biodiversity, and the valuable services it provides, the Sundarbans is considered a conservation priority.

How are Wetlands Formed?

Wetlands are fascinating ecosystems that form through a mix of natural processes and human activities. Let’s explore how these lively habitats come to be:

Natural Processes

• Sedimentation Dynamics: Wetlands often form in areas where water moves slowly, allowing sediments and organic materials to accumulate. This is common in floodplains and river deltas, where slower water flow encourages sediment deposition.

• Coastal Interactions: Coastal wetlands, like mangroves and salt marshes, form where land meets the sea. The mix of salty and fresh water, along with sediment from tides and ocean currents, creates these vital ecosystems.

• Fluvial Alterations: Rivers can change their paths over time, leaving behind oxbow lakes—curved lakes formed from old river bends. These lakes can become wetlands as plants start to grow in them.

• Limestone Landscapes: In areas with limestone or other soluble rocks, water can dissolve the rock, creating sinkholes and karst wetlands. These unique habitats form when water erodes the rock, creating depressions.

• Glacial Legacy: When glaciers retreat, they leave behind depressions called kettle holes. These can fill with water and gradually turn into wetlands over time.

• Volcanic Contributions: In volcanic regions, craters and depressions left by eruptions can fill with water, creating wetlands as plants take root in these fertile grounds.

• Climatic Factors: Long-term climate changes, like shifts in precipitation and sea levels, play a big role in forming and sustaining wetlands. These changes can expand or shrink wetland areas, affecting their ecological balance.

Human Activities

• Anthropogenic Wetlands: Humans can create wetlands through activities like building dams, cultivating rice paddies, and implementing irrigation systems. These man-made wetlands often serve specific purposes and have unique characteristics.

• Beaver Activity: Beavers build dams in rivers and streams, creating ponds that can turn into wetlands. These beaver ponds provide habitats for many plants and animals.

• Earthquakes: Earthquakes can create wetlands by damming rivers or causing land to sink near water bodies.

• Wind Action: In places like Nebraska, wind action can create depressions in sand hills, which can later become wetlands.

Wetlands are incredibly important for the environment. They help filter water, provide homes for many plants and animals, and protect against storms and floods. They are also beautiful places to explore and learn about nature!

Types of Ramsar Sites in India

India is home to a significant number of Ramsar Sites, which are wetlands of international importance. These sites play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity. Let’s explore the different types of Ramsar Sites in India:

Coastal Wetlands

• Area: Over 6,750 square kilometers.
• Description: Coastal wetlands in India are rich in mangrove forests. These sites are crucial for coastal protection, providing habitats for diverse marine life and acting as breeding grounds for fish and other aquatic species.
• Examples: Bhitarkanika Mangroves in Odisha, Sundarbans in West Bengal.

Glacial Wetlands

• Description: Formed by the slow movement of glaciers, glacial wetlands are found in high-altitude regions and are characterized by their pristine, cold waters.
• Examples: Tsomoriri in Ladakh, Chandertal in Himachal Pradesh.

Tectonic Wetlands

• Description: These wetlands are created by the movements of the earth’s crust, resulting in depressions that fill with water.
• Examples: Nilnag in Jammu and Kashmir, Khajjiar in Himachal Pradesh, Nainital and Bhimtal in Uttarakhand.

Oxbow Wetlands

• Description: Oxbow wetlands are formed from old river bends that have been cut off from the main river flow, creating crescent-shaped lakes.
• Examples: Dal Lake in Jammu & Kashmir, Loktak Lake in Manipur.

Lagoon Wetlands

• Description: Lagoon wetlands are brackish water bodies formed at the confluence of freshwater and seawater. They are rich in biodiversity and serve as important fishing grounds.
• Examples: Chilika Lake in Odisha.

Crater Wetlands

• Description: Formed by volcanic activity, crater wetlands are unique ecosystems that often have saline or alkaline waters.
• Examples: Lonar Lake in Maharashtra, Pangong Tso in Jammu and Kashmir.

Urban Wetlands

• Description: These wetlands are located in urban areas and are often a mix of natural and man-made features. They provide green spaces in cities and help in water management and biodiversity conservation.
• Examples: Dal Lake in Srinagar, Nainital Lake in Uttarakhand.

Reservoir Wetlands

• Description: Reservoir wetlands are created by damming rivers to store water. They play a crucial role in irrigation, water supply, and flood control.
• Examples: Idukki Dam in Kerala, Hirakud Dam in Odisha, Bhakra-Nangal Dam in Himachal Pradesh.

Mangrove Wetlands

• Description: Mangrove wetlands are coastal forests that thrive in saline environments. They protect coastlines from erosion and support rich biodiversity.
• Examples: Bhitarkanika Mangroves in Odisha, Sundarbans in West Bengal.

Importance of Wetlands in India

Wetlands in India cover 18.4% of the country’s land area and are essential for various reasons:

• Biodiversity: They provide habitats for a wide range of species, including many endangered ones.
• Water Management: Wetlands help in flood control, groundwater recharge, and water purification.
• Agriculture: Nearly 70% of India’s wetlands are used for growing rice, supporting the livelihoods of millions of farmers.
• Climate Regulation: Wetlands act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping to mitigate climate change.

Conservation Efforts

The National Wetland Conservation & Management Programme (NWCMP) plays a pivotal role in protecting and managing wetlands in India. It aims to maintain the ecological health of these vital ecosystems through various initiatives and policies.

Features of Ramsar Sites in India

Ramsar Sites in India showcase the country’s rich natural resources and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. These important wetlands support various plants and animals, provide water, and keep the environment healthy. Here’s a simpler look at what makes these wetlands so special:

Ecological Treasures

• Habitat for Wildlife: Ramsar Sites in India are sanctuaries for many species, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and aquatic organisms. They provide essential habitats for a multitude of species, many of which are unique to these regions.

Diverse Wetland Ecosystems

• Variety of Ecosystems: India’s Ramsar Sites include tranquil lakes, meandering rivers, vibrant estuaries, dense mangrove forests, and serene coastal lagoons. Each ecosystem supports specialized species and adds to the region’s ecological diversity.

Mangrove Sanctuaries

• Coastal Protection: Coastal Ramsar Sites often have mangrove forests. These resilient plants are crucial for the breeding of marine life, protect against coastal erosion, and act as significant carbon sinks.

Aquatic Flora

• Vegetation: Wetlands have a variety of aquatic plants like water lilies, lotuses, and reeds. These plants help maintain water quality and provide food and shelter for wildlife.

Avian Highways

• Migratory Bird Stopovers: Ramsar Sites in India are important stopovers for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway. These wetlands provide nourishment and rest for countless birds on their long journeys.

Refuge for the Rare

• Endangered Species: Some Ramsar Sites are the last refuges for endangered species, like the Siberian crane at Keoladeo National Park. Protecting these habitats is vital for the survival of these threatened species.

Cultural Heritage

• Local Traditions: Many Ramsar Sites are deeply connected to local communities’ culture. They reflect traditional practices and spiritual beliefs, making them living symbols of heritage.

Recreational Hotspots

• Tourism and Recreation: These wetlands are popular for birdwatching, boating, and fishing. They attract nature lovers and contribute to eco-tourism and local economies.

Lifelines for Communities

• Freshwater Source: Ramsar Sites provide freshwater for nearby communities. Sustainable management ensures these wetlands continue to provide clean water.

Centers of Learning

• Research and Education: Many Ramsar Sites serve as outdoor classrooms, supporting research and education on wetland ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation methods.

Bastions of Climate Resilience

• Climate Protection: Wetlands act as natural buffers against extreme weather. They absorb excess rainfall and reduce the risks of floods and droughts, helping with climate adaptation.

Guardians of Tradition

• Sustainable Practices: Some Ramsar Sites are managed using age-old, sustainable practices passed down through generations. This shows the harmony between human traditions and ecological stewardship.

National Wetland Conservation Programme

• Conservation Efforts: The National Wetland Conservation & Management Programme (NWCMP) plays a key role in protecting and managing these wetlands. It aims to keep these vital ecosystems healthy through various initiatives and policies.

Wetlands in India cover 18.4% of the country’s land area and are essential for biodiversity, water management, agriculture, and climate regulation.

Significance of Ramsar Sites in India

The Ramsar Sites in India are very important because they show how much the country cares about protecting its unique environment. These special places are recognized for many reasons, including their ecological, cultural, economic, scientific, and recreational value. Here’s a simpler overview of what makes Ramsar Sites in India special:

Ecological Significance

• Biodiversity Sanctuaries: Ramsar Sites serve as sanctuaries for biodiversity, offering refuge to a plethora of species, including those that are endangered or migratory.

• Providers of Ecosystem Services: These wetlands deliver essential services like water filtration, flood mitigation, groundwater replenishment, and carbon storage.

• Varied Ecosystems: Representing a mosaic of wetland ecosystems, Ramsar Sites include mangroves, estuaries, and marshes, each contributing uniquely to ecological health.

• Aquatic Nurseries: They are crucial nurseries for aquatic life, bolstering the sustenance of local communities.

Cultural Importance

• Cultural Nexus: These sites are woven into the cultural fabric, playing a role in religious rites and sustaining traditional livelihoods.

• Heritage Preservation: Ramsar Sites aid in the conservation of cultural heritage, maintaining time-honored customs and lifestyles.

Economic Contributions

• Fisheries Support: They underpin fishing industries by providing habitats for aquatic species, thus fueling local economies.

• Tourism Magnets: The allure of Ramsar Sites draws tourists, spurring economic growth and job creation in the tourism sector.

Scientific Relevance

• Research Hubs: These sites are natural laboratories for studying wetland ecology, biodiversity, and the effects of climate change.

• Climate Change Combatants: Certain Ramsar Sites, such as peatlands, are pivotal in climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration.

Recreational Opportunities

• Eco-tourism Destinations: Ramsar Sites offer venues for eco-tourism activities like birdwatching and boating, enhancing visitor experiences.

Conservation and Educational Platforms

• Conservation Centers: They are focal points for conservation initiatives aimed at protecting and rejuvenating wetland ecosystems.

• Educational Catalysts: Ramsar Sites are instrumental in raising public awareness about the significance of wetland conservation.

Water Resource Provision

• Water Reservoirs: Many Ramsar Sites are critical sources of freshwater, ensuring a steady supply for surrounding communities.

Climate Resilience

• Natural Flood Barriers: These wetlands act as natural sponges, mitigating the impacts of floods and droughts, thereby enhancing climate resilience.

Key Facts about Ramsar Wetlands Sites of India

Here’s a set of Ramsar Sites in India & Indian Wetlands related facts in a question-and-answer format for competitive exams:

Q1. What are Ramsar Sites?

Ramsar Sites are wetland areas listed under the Ramsar Convention, aiming to conserve and promote the sustainable use of natural resources.

Q2. What is the Ramsar Convention?

The Ramsar Convention, also known as the Convention of Wetlands, was established by UNESCO in 1971 and came into force in 1975.

Q3. Is India a part of the Ramsar Convention?

Yes, India is a party to the Ramsar Convention, having signed it on 1st February 1982.

Q4. How many Ramsar Sites are in India?

India currently has 85 Ramsar Sites, according to the latest information.

Q5. Which is the largest Ramsar Site in India?

The Sundarbans hold the title of the largest Ramsar Site in India.

Q6. Which is the first Ramsar Site in India?

Chilika Lake (Odisha) and Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) were the first recognized Ramsar Sites in India.

Q7. Which Indian state has the most number of Ramsar Sites?

Tamil Nadu boasts the highest number of Ramsar Sites in India, with a total of 18 Indian Wetlands.

Q8. Which is the smallest wetland in India?

Renuka Wetland in Himachal Pradesh, covering an area of 20 hectares, is the smallest wetland in India.

Other Interesting Facts about the Ramsar sites

Here are some additional interesting facts about Ramsar Sites that can be valuable for aspirants preparing for competitive exams:

• Ramsar sites are globally recognized as crucial protected areas.

• There are currently over 2,518 Ramsar sites worldwide, covering 257,289,430 hectares.

• The first Ramsar site, Cobourg Peninsula in Australia, was identified in 1974.

• The United Kingdom has the highest number of Ramsar Sites globally, with 175 sites.

• The largest Ramsar site is Rio Negro in Brazil, spanning 120,000 square kilometers.

• International Wetlands Day is celebrated on February 2, marking the signing of the Ramsar Convention in 1971.

• The Ramsar Convention collaborates with organizations like IUCN, Birdlife International, IWMI, Wetlands International, WWT, and WWF International.

• Information on Ramsar sites is available through the Ramsar Sites Information Service (RSIS).

• As of October 2024, the Ramsar Convention has 175 contracting parties.

Key Facts About Ramsar Sites Worldwide

Global Ramsar Sites Overview

• First Ramsar Site: The Cobourg Peninsula in Australia, designated in 1974.

• Largest Ramsar Sites:
  • Rio Negro in Brazil: 120,000 square km
  • Ngiri-Tumba-Maindombe in the Democratic Republic of Congo: 60,000 square km
  • Queen Maud Gulf in Canada: 60,000 square km

• Countries with the Most Ramsar Sites:
  • United Kingdom: 175 sites
  • Mexico: 142 sites

• Largest Area Under Ramsar Convention: Bolivia with a total of 148,000 square km

• Current Statistics (as of May 14, 2024)
  • Over 2,514 Ramsar Sites worldwide
  • Covering more than 257,257,413 hectares
  • 172 national governments participating

This information shows how the world is dedicated to saving and wisely using wetlands. Wetlands are important for wildlife and the environment. The Ramsar Convention is doing a great job protecting these areas all over the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

🖇️ Source: The Convention on Wetlands

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