The Ramsar Convention, signed in 1971 at Ramsar, Iran, is a landmark global treaty dedicated to wetland conservation. Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth, yet they are also highly vulnerable to degradation. India, with its rich diversity of rivers, lakes, mangroves, and marshes, has actively embraced this responsibility. From just 26 Ramsar sites a decade ago, the country now proudly hosts 96 wetlands of international importance.
What is Ramsar?
The Ramsar Convention is a global treaty signed in 1971 at Ramsar, Iran, dedicated to the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. Wetlands are defined by the treaty as “areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six meters.”
Countries that join the convention commit to:
- Designating wetlands of international importance as Ramsar Sites.
- Ensuring their ecological character is maintained.
- Promoting awareness and cooperation for wetland conservation
Why are Ramsar Sites Important?
Wetlands are often called the “kidneys of the Earth” because they filter water, store carbon, and regulate floods. Ramsar Sites are crucial because they:
- Support biodiversity: They provide habitat for migratory birds, fish, and endangered species.
- Protect water security: Wetlands recharge groundwater and act as natural reservoirs.
- Mitigate climate change: They store carbon and buffer against extreme weather.
- Sustain livelihoods: Local communities depend on wetlands for fishing, farming, and tourism
List of Ramsar Sites in India (2025)
India, with its diverse geography, has embraced this responsibility wholeheartedly. From just 26 Ramsar sites in 2014, the country now boasts 96 Ramsar sites across 28 states and union territories
India’s Ramsar sites cover 13.6 lakh hectares. They range from the vast Sundarbans in West Bengal to the tiny Renuka Lake in Himachal Pradesh. Chilika Lake in Odisha and Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan were the first sites designated in 1981, while Siliserh Lake (Rajasthan) and Kopra Reservoir (Chhattisgarh) were added in 2025. Each site reflects India’s ecological diversity—from Himalayan lakes to coastal mangroves. Here are highlights:
- Oldest Ramsar Sites in India: Chilika Lake (Odisha) & Keoladeo NP (Rajasthan), designated in 1981.
- Largest: Sundarbans (West Bengal).
- Smallest: Renuka Lake (Himachal Pradesh).
- Newest Ramsar Sites (2025): Siliserh Lake (Rajasthan) & Kopra Reservoir (Chhattisgarh), bringing the total to 96
Table of states with notable sites.
| State/UT | No. of Ramsar Sites | Notable Sites |
|---|---|---|
| Tamil Nadu | 20 | Point Calimere, Vembannur Wetland Complex |
| Uttar Pradesh | 10 | Saman Bird Sanctuary, Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary |
| Bihar | 6 | Nagi Bird Sanctuary, Nakti Bird Sanctuary |
| Odisha | 6 | Chilika Lake (oldest, 1981), Bhitarkanika Mangroves |
| Punjab | 6 | Harike Wetland, Ropar Wetland |
| Madhya Pradesh | 5 | Bhoj Wetlands, Yashwant Sagar |
| J&K | 5 | Mansar-Surinsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Wular Lake |
| Rajasthan | 5 | Keoladeo NP, Sambhar Lake, Siliserh Lake (added 2025) |
| Gujarat | 4 | Nal Sarovar, Thol Lake |
| Karnataka | 4 | Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary |
| Himachal Pradesh | 3 | Renuka Lake (smallest Ramsar site) |
| Kerala | 3 | Ashtamudi Lake, Sasthamkotta Lake |
| Maharashtra | 3 | Nandur Madhmeshwar, Lonar Lake, Thane Creek |
| West Bengal | 2 | Sundarban Wetland (largest, 4,230 km²), East Kolkata Wetlands |
| Haryana | 2 | Sultanpur National Park, Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Ladakh | 2 | Tso Kar, Tsomoriri Lake |
| Andhra Pradesh | 1 | Kolleru Lake |
| Assam | 1 | Deepor Beel |
| Goa | 1 | Nanda Lake |
| Jharkhand | 1 | Udhwa Lake |
| Manipur | 1 | Loktak Lake |
| Mizoram | 1 | Pala Wetland |
| Sikkim | 1 | Khecheopalri Wetland |
| Tripura | 1 | Rudrasagar Lake |
| Uttarakhand | 1 | Asan Barrage |
Conclusion
Ramsar Sites are more than wetlands—they are ecological treasures that sustain life, culture, and climate balance. India’s growing list of Ramsar Sites shows its commitment to conservation but protecting them requires awareness and participation from all of us. Whether you’re a traveler, birdwatcher, or student, visiting Ramsar sites like Sundarbans, Sultanpur N.P. or Nandur Madhmeshwar can be inspiring and learning about these wetlands is a step toward preserving them for future generations.