India reaches 100 Ramsar sites, joins global top three in wetland conservation

New Delhi, August 4: India has become only the third country in the world to have 100 Ramsar sites, marking a significant milestone in wetland conservation. On World Environment Day (June 5, 2026), Jai Prakash Narain Bird Sanctuary (Surha Taal) in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, was designated as India's 100th Ramsar site. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the achievement on X, calling it a "century" of Ramsar sites.

 

 

The Ramsar Convention, signed in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, is the world's first international treaty dedicated to wetland conservation. Wetlands designated as Ramsar sites are recognised for their global ecological importance, particularly for conserving biodiversity and supporting migratory birds. These ecosystems also act as major carbon sinks, storing nearly twice as much carbon as forests, while reducing floods, storms and sea-level impacts. Countries with Ramsar sites are committed to their "wise use" through sustainable management and protection from pollution and encroachment.

 

 

 

India joined the convention in 1982 after Chilika Lake and Keoladeo National Park became its first Ramsar sites in 1981. By 2012, the country had only 26 Ramsar sites. However, 74 new sites were added between 2014 and June 2026, taking the total to 100. In 2022, India added 28 Ramsar sites in a single year, while another 15 sites were added in the 18 months leading up to June 2026.The United Kingdom leads globally with 175 Ramsar sites, followed by Mexico (142) and India (100). Within India, Tamil Nadu has the highest number with 20 sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh (12). The Sundarbans in West Bengal is India's largest Ramsar site, while Renuka Wetland in Himachal Pradesh is the smallest.

 

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