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On Wednesday, India commemorated World Environment Day by declaring Nagi and Nakti bird sanctuaries as its latest wetlands of international significance under the Ramsar convention. These sanctuaries, located in Bihar's Jamui district within the Jhajha forest range, are man-made reservoirs, boosting the country's count of globally recognized wetlands to 82.
This designation catapults India to joint third place with China in terms of Ramsar Sites, trailing behind the UK with 175 and Mexico with 144. Over the past decade, India has made substantial strides, escalating from 26 to 82 sites, with 40 added in the last three years alone.
Wetlands, whether seasonal or permanent, are crucial components of the hydrological cycle, flood control, and water supply. They also serve as vital habitats and sources of food, fiber, and raw materials.
Nakti bird sanctuary, initially developed for irrigation through the construction of Nakti dam, gained recognition as a bird sanctuary in 1984. This acknowledgment highlights its role as a wintering haven for numerous migratory species, attracting over 20,000 birds during winter, including one of the largest gatherings of red-crested pochard in the Indo-Gangetic plain.
Established in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, the Ramsar Convention provides a framework for the conservation and sustainable utilization of wetlands and their resources across its 172-member countries, including India. It serves as a vital platform for international cooperation in safeguarding these critical ecosystems.
