In a boost to India’s wetland preservation campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the elevation of Patna Bird Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh and Chhari-Dhand in Gujarat to Ramsar status. The news from Etawah and Kutch districts highlights the nation’s strides in protecting vital natural resources.
PM Modi shared his joy on X: ‘Patna Bird Sanctuary (Etawah, UP) and Chhari-Dhand (Kutch, Gujarat) are now Ramsar sites. Kudos to communities and conservationists. These milestones validate our dedication to biodiversity and ecosystem health.’ He envisioned them as enduring sanctuaries for birds and wildlife.
Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav broke the news prior to World Wetlands Day, proudly declaring the additions to India’s Ramsar list. He credited PM Modi’s vision for the network’s expansion—from 26 sites in 2014 to 98, achieving over 276 percent growth.
Rich in fauna, these wetlands shelter hundreds of migratory and resident birds. Chhari-Dhand is particularly notable for its rare inhabitants: chinkara gazelles, wolves, caracals, desert felines, and foxes, alongside threatened avian species. Patna offers a serene refuge for ornithological wonders.
The Ramsar designations facilitate global funding, expertise, and monitoring, crucial for tackling challenges like climate change and habitat loss. They also empower local economies through birdwatching tourism and sustainable fishing. As India eyes further expansions, these sites exemplify how policy, science, and community action converge to safeguard the planet’s wetlands.