India has 98 Ramsar Wetlands now, adding Patna and Chhari-Dhand as two new additions

India has added two new Ramsar wetlands. (Image: X/@byadavbjp)

• Patna Bird Sanctuary, Chhari-Dhand named Ramsar sites, India's total now 98.
• These sites aid migratory birds, desert wildlife, and essential ecosystem services.
• India's Ramsar sites up 276% since 2014, now span 1.36 million hectares.

Did our AI summary help?

India has taken a big step in protecting its natural treasures. The Patna Bird Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh and Chhari-Dhand in Gujarat have been officially designated as Ramsar wetlands, bringing the country’s total to 98 globally recognised sites.

These wetlands are not just picturesque landscapes; they are vital ecosystems supporting biodiversity, controlling floods and purifying water. Since 2014, India’s Ramsar sites have increased by 276%, covering 1.36 million hectares. This is a remarkable achievement in conservation.

What and Where Are the New Sites?

Patna Bird Sanctuary, Uttar Pradesh is located near Patna city. This wetland is a magnet for ornithologists and researchers studying migratory patterns. Its shallow water and reed beds provide shelter and feeding grounds for birds arriving from Central Asia.

Chhari-Dhand, Gujarat is situated in the Kutch district. This seasonal wetland flourishes after rainfall. Its saline and freshwater pools create an unusual mosaic of habitats. It supports a remarkable diversity of birds and other desert-adapted species.

Together, these sites increase India’s total Ramsar wetlands to 98, covering 1.36 million hectares, a 276% jump since 2014.

Key Species in Focus in these Wetlands

Patna Bird Sanctuary, spanning 108 hectares, is a seasonal refuge for hundreds of migratory birds. Get to witness species such as the painted stork, black-necked stork and Indian spot-billed duck, alongside rare waterfowl.

Chhari-Dhand, a seasonal wetland in the arid lands of Kutch, Gujarat, transforms after the monsoon into a thriving habitat. It attracts flamingos, pelicans and migratory ducks, while supporting desert wildlife such as foxes, reptiles and small mammals.

PM Modi Congratulates Conservationists

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the announcement as a triumph for both nature and communities. He congratulated locals and conservationists, highlighting the wetlands as examples of harmony between ecology and development. The timing is significant, with World Wetlands Day on February 2 approaching.

Delighted that the Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah (Uttar Pradesh) and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch (Gujarat) are Ramsar sites. Congratulations to the local population there as well as all those passionate about wetland conservation. These recognitions reaffirm our commitment to preserving… https://t.co/0O3R5TBqbJ

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 31, 2026

How These Wetlands Benefit Nature?

Patna and Chhari-Dhand sustain wildlife, protect communities and contribute to the broader health of the environment. Their conservation is not just about preserving beauty, but it is about maintaining ecosystem services essential for life on Earth. Ramsar wetlands are globally recognised for their biodiversity importance. India strengthens its global wetlands footprint with 98 Ramsar sites.