Source: HT
Context: India has added two new Ramsar Sites—Menar (Udaipur) and Khichan (Phalodi) ahead of World Environment Day.
- With this, India’s total number of Ramsar wetlands rises to 91, the highest in Asia and third globally.
About Menar and Khichan Ramsar Site:
- Menar Wetland, Udaipur:
- Nickname: Bird Village
- Size: 104 hectares
- Biodiversity: Over 200 bird species including Eurasian coot, herons, spot-billed duck.
- Community-Driven Conservation: Local residents prohibit hunting/fishing; declared IBA in 2016.
- Tourism Value: Growing eco-tourism destination on Udaipur-Chittorgarh route.
- Khichan Wetland, Phalodi:
- Known For: Migratory Demoiselle cranes
- Ecological Significance: Wintering site for large flocks of migratory birds.
- Community Role: Local traditions protect birds; acts as a critical stop along the Central Asian Flyway.
About Ramsar Sites:
- What is a Ramsar Site?
- A wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention (1971, Ramsar, Iran – under UNESCO).
- Recognizes wetlands that provide critical ecosystem services, support biodiversity, and sustain local livelihoods.
- India Status on Ramsar Sites:
- India became a Ramsar signatory: February 1, 1982
- First Ramsar Sites: Chilika Lake (Odisha) and Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) in 1981
- Total Ramsar Sites (as of June 2025): 91
- Coverage Area: ~13.59 lakh hectares
- India’s Global Ranking:
- 1st in Asia,
- 3rd Globally (after UK – 175 and Mexico – 142)
- Top States by Number of Sites:
- Tamil Nadu – 20
- Uttar Pradesh – 10
- Rajasthan – 4 (post Menar & Khichan addition)
- Eligibility Criteria (Any 1 of 9 Ramsar Criteria Required)
- Supports rare or endangered species.
- Hosts significant bird populations.
- Critical life cycle habitat (e.g., breeding or migration).
- Exemplary wetland ecosystem or unique hydrological characteristics.
