India adds two new Ramsar Sites in Bihar, boosting Wetland conservation efforts

New Delhi: India has strengthened its commitment to wetland conservation with the addition of two new Ramsar sites in Bihar — Gokul Jalashay in Buxar district and Udaipur Jheel in West Champaran district.

The designation was recently confirmed under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.

The recognition elevates India’s total number of Ramsar sites, placing Bihar firmly on the map of globally important wetlands.

Gokul Jalashay, spread over 448 hectares, is an oxbow lake formed by the meandering course of the Ganga River. It provides critical habitat for migratory birds, supports local fisheries, and plays a vital role in groundwater recharge and flood control in the region.

Udaipur Jheel, covering 319 hectares, is a natural wetland system known for its rich biodiversity. It supports resident and migratory waterfowl, aquatic vegetation, and sustains traditional livelihoods such as fishing, lotus cultivation, and agriculture for surrounding communities.

Officials from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) said the recognition would open avenues for international cooperation, research, and funding to strengthen conservation while promoting eco-tourism and sustainable livelihoods.

Hailing the decision, Union Enirvonment Minster Bhupender Yadav said this brings the total to 93 Ramsar Sites, spanning 13,60,719 hectares, underscoring India’s resolve to safeguard its rich wetland ecosystems for biodiversity, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods.

Bihar now joins other Indian states actively working to conserve wetlands under the Ramsar framework. Experts note that the designation is particularly significant for the flood-prone plains of Bihar, where wetlands act as natural buffers, mitigating the impact of climate variability.

The Ramsar Convention, adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, recognizes wetlands of international importance and encourages member countries to maintain their ecological character through sustainable management.

With these new inclusions, India reaffirms its position as one of the leading nations in wetland conservation, showcasing the ecological and cultural value of its diverse aquatic ecosystems.