India added two more wetland into Ramsar list

India has added two more sanctuaries to the List of Wetlands of International Importance. Accoeding to Bupendra Yadav, Environment and Forest Minister,Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch, Gujarat are the new entrants to the coveted Ramsar sites list. This international recognition reflects India’s strong commitment to protect our environment and conserve our rich wetlands, he said. Hundreds of migratory and resident avian species find their home in the two wetlands, apart from being the habitat of chinkara, wolves, caracal, desert cats and desert foxes besides endangered birds.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed the inclusion of the Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah in UP and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch (Gujarat) are Ramsar sites. He congratulated the local population there, as well as all those passionate about wetland conservation. These recognitions reaffirm our commitment to preserving biodiversity and protecting vital ecosystems, he said. Indian Ramsar network has seen an expansion of over 276% - climbing from 26 in 2014 to 98 now.