What is ramsar sites in india?

India has a rich network of Ramsar Sites, wetlands of international importance recognized under the Ramsar Convention. As of October 2023, India has 75 such sites, the highest number in South Asia.

• Importance: These sites are crucial for biodiversity conservation, water security, and disaster risk reduction. They act as habitats for various flora and fauna, including migratory birds.
• Distribution: Ramsar Sites are distributed across India, from the Himalayas to the coasts, representing diverse wetland ecosystems.
• Notable Sites: Some well-known Ramsar Sites include Chilika Lake (Odisha), Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan), Loktak Lake (Manipur), and the Sunderbans (West Bengal).
• Management: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is the nodal agency for the implementation of the Ramsar Convention in India. The management and conservation of these sites often involve collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and NGOs.
• Challenges: Ramsar Sites face several threats, including encroachment, pollution, climate change impacts, and invasive species. Effective management strategies are essential to address these challenges and maintain the ecological integrity of these vital wetlands.
• Ramsar Convention: The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources.