India’s Ramsar Sites Reach 103 With Sukhna & Sauj Jheel

India expanded its network of internationally recognized wetlands to 103 sites following the official designation of Sukhna Wetland in Chandigarh and Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh. Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav announced the milestone on October 16, 2026.

The additions highlight India’s growing leadership in global biodiversity preservation, water security, and sustainable ecosystem management under the Ramsar Convention framework.

Profile of the Newly Designated Ramsar Sites

1. Sukhna Wetland (Chandigarh)

• Location: Chandigarh (Foothills of the Shivalik Range)
• Ecological Significance: Serves as a vital wintering ground for migratory waterfowl traveling along the Central Asian Flyway. The wetland acts as a natural carbon sink, regulates local microclimates, and prevents urban flooding across Chandigarh.

2. Sauj Jheel (Uttar Pradesh)

• Location: Mainpuri District, Uttar Pradesh
• Ecological Significance: Forms a critical freshwater sanctuary within the Indo-Gangetic plain. It supports thriving populations of vulnerable bird species, including the Sarus Crane (Antigone antigone), while aiding groundwater recharge and supporting local agricultural ecosystems.

What Is a Ramsar Site?

A Ramsar site is a wetland designated as internationally important under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, an intergovernmental treaty signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971.

The treaty establishes a global framework for national action and international cooperation to conserve wetlands and promote the "wise use" of their natural resources.

Key Environmental Functions of Protected Wetlands:

• Biodiversity Hotspots: Provide critical habitats for migratory birds, aquatic species, and endangered flora.
• Natural Water Filters: Trap sediments, absorb excess nutrients, and filter pollutants out of freshwater supplies.
• Climate Mitigation: Store huge amounts of blue carbon and reduce flood impacts during intense monsoon rains.
• Economic Support: Provide eco-tourism opportunities, fisheries support, and sustainable livelihoods for surrounding rural communities.

India’s Expanding Wetland Network

Driving Conservation and Local Eco-Tourism

Minister Bhupender Yadav emphasized that expanding the Ramsar network protects fragile aquatic habitats from land degradation and urban encroachment. He congratulated the administrations of Chandigarh and Uttar Pradesh for their conservation efforts and encouraged eco-tourists to visit these pristine wetland destinations.