Context:
India has recently added Siliserh Lake in Rajasthan and Kopra Jalashay in Chhattisgarh to the List of Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention, bringing the country’s total number of Ramsar sites to 96.
About the Ramsar Convention:
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- The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is an international treaty signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971, aimed at the conservation and wise use of wetlands worldwide.
- Countries that join the Convention commit to maintaining the ecological character of their designated wetlands and promoting sustainable use.
- Wetlands designated under the treaty are known as Ramsar Sites, or Wetlands of International Importance.
- The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is an international treaty signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971, aimed at the conservation and wise use of wetlands worldwide.
Significance of Ramsar Designation:
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- Recognition of global ecological importance
- Strengthened conservation and sustainable management frameworks
- Enhanced support for biodiversity, water security, climate resilience, and local livelihoods
- Recognition of global ecological importance
About Siliserh Lake (Rajasthan):
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Aspect |
Details |
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Location & Background |
• Located in Alwar district, Rajasthan • A man-made lake, constructed in 1845 by Maharaja Vinay Singh through an embankment across a tributary of the Ruparel River • Lies in the buffer zone of Sariska Tiger Reserve, integrating wetland and wildlife conservation |
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Ecological Importance |
• Supports rich biodiversity, including over 149 species of resident and migratory birds and 17 mammal species • Notable species include the River tern (Vulnerable) and the Tiger (Endangered) • Plays a crucial role in water supply in a semi-arid region, groundwater recharge, eco-tourism, and local livelihoods |
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Threats |
• Agricultural intensification • Expansion of human settlements • Increasing pressure on water resources and natural habitats |
About Kopra Jalashay (Chhattisgarh):
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Aspect |
Details |
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Location & Background |
• Located near Bilaspur, in the upper catchments of the River Mahanadi, Chhattisgarh • Originally constructed for irrigation, with growing ecological significance over time |
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Ecological Importance |
• A reservoir-type wetland with extensive open water and nutrient-rich shallow backwaters • Provides habitat for over 60 species of migratory birds, making it an important bird area • Notable species include the Greater spotted eagle (Vulnerable) and the Egyptian vulture (Endangered) • Supports hydrological connectivity, biodiversity conservation, local tourism, irrigation, and flood moderation |
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Threats |
• Siltation • Invasive species • Intensive agricultural practices in surrounding areas |
Implications for India:
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- With 96 Ramsar Sites, India’s expanding list reflects a strategic emphasis on wetland conservation.
- Wetlands play a critical role in:
- Biodiversity maintenance
- Climate change resilience
- Water security
- Sustainable livelihoods, including fisheries and eco-tourism
- Biodiversity maintenance
- Ramsar designation often facilitates improved legal protection, access to funding, scientific monitoring, and community participation.
- With 96 Ramsar Sites, India’s expanding list reflects a strategic emphasis on wetland conservation.
Conclusion:
The inclusion of Siliserh Lake and Kopra Jalashay in the Ramsar List underscores India’s progressive wetland conservation trajectory. Such international recognition not only safeguards vital ecosystems but also reinforces sustainable development linkages in the face of mounting environmental and climate challenges.
