India adds three new Ramsar sites in 2024, bringing total to 82
February 2024
The addition of Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve (Karnataka), Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve (Karnataka), and Aghanashini Estuary (Karnataka) as Ramsar sites highlights India's commitment to wetland conservation under the Ramsar Convention. These designations recognize internationally important wetland ecosystems that support migratory birds and endemic species. The Aghanashini Estuary is particularly significant as a mangrove ecosystem supporting diverse marine and terrestrial biodiversity. This development connects to India's broader strategy of expanding protected area coverage and meeting international biodiversity targets under the Global Biodiversity Framework adopted at COP15.
UPSC Angle: Expect questions linking Ramsar Convention to India's wetland conservation strategy, international environmental commitments, and the role of wetlands in climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation.