Environment · GS3.5 · 2026-10-16 · 2 min read · 2026-10-16-pm
India’s Ramsar Sites Reach 103 with Sukhna Wetland and Sauj Jheel
India has added Sukhna Wetland in Chandigarh and Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh to its list of Ramsar Sites, raising the total to 103. This reflects the government's ongoing efforts to conserve wetlands for biodiversity, water security, and livelihoods, relevant for environment and biodiversity topics in UPSC.
India’s Ramsar site count has reached 103 with the addition of Sukhna Wetland and Sauj Jheel, underscoring wetland conservation efforts.
Why is this in the news?
On October 15, 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced the designation of Sukhna Wetland and Sauj Jheel as Ramsar Sites, increasing India's tally to 103.
What are the new Ramsar Sites added in India?
- New sites added. Sukhna Wetland in Chandigarh and Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh were designated as Ramsar Sites, bringing India's total to 103.
- Significance of sites. These wetlands contribute to biodiversity conservation, water and climate security, and support local livelihoods.
Why does wetland conservation matter for India?
- Biodiversity protection. Wetlands are critical habitats for diverse flora and fauna, helping preserve ecological balance.
- Water and climate security. Wetlands regulate water cycles and help mitigate climate impacts like floods and droughts.
- Livelihood support. Many communities depend on wetlands for fishing, agriculture, and other economic activities.
How does this relate to India’s international commitments?
- Ramsar Convention. India’s designation of wetlands as Ramsar Sites fulfills its obligations under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands to conserve important wetland ecosystems.
- Government focus. The additions reflect the government’s emphasis on environmental conservation aligned with global climate and biodiversity goals.
Key numbers
| Figure | What it measures | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 103 | Total number of Ramsar Sites in India after the latest additions |
Back to basics: Ramsar Convention and Wetland Conservation
The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. Wetlands are ecosystems that are inundated by water, either permanently or seasonally, and support unique biodiversity. Designation as a Ramsar Site recognizes a wetland's international importance and commits the country to protect it. Wetlands help in water purification, flood control, and climate regulation, making their conservation vital for environmental sustainability.
Practice: MCQ, Mains and revision
Prelims MCQ
Consider the following statements about India’s Ramsar Sites: 1. Sukhna Wetland and Sauj Jheel are the latest additions, bringing the total to 103. 2. Ramsar Sites are designated by the Ministry of Agriculture in India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Answer and trap
Answer: (a). Statement 2 is incorrect because Ramsar Site designation is announced by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, not Agriculture.
Mains question (15 marks)
Examine the significance of wetland conservation in India with reference to the recent additions to the Ramsar Sites list.
Examine: Explain the importance of wetlands, the role of Ramsar Sites, and the impact of recent site additions on conservation efforts.
Intro: Wetlands are vital ecosystems that support biodiversity and provide ecological services.
- Describe the Ramsar Convention and its role in wetland conservation globally and in India.
- Discuss the ecological, climatic, and livelihood benefits of wetlands.
- Explain the significance of adding Sukhna Wetland and Sauj Jheel to India’s Ramsar Sites.
- Highlight government initiatives and challenges in wetland conservation.
Conclusion: Strengthening wetland conservation through Ramsar designations supports India's environmental and sustainable development goals.
Quick revision
- How many Ramsar Sites does India have after the latest additions?
- India has 103 Ramsar Sites after adding Sukhna Wetland and Sauj Jheel.
- Which ministry announced the new Ramsar Sites in India?
- The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced the new Ramsar Sites.
- Why are wetlands important for India’s environment?
- Wetlands conserve biodiversity, enhance water and climate security, and support local livelihoods.
Sources
- [1] Press Information Bureau: India’s Ramsar Site tally reaches 103 with addition of Sukhna Wetland (Chandigarh) and Sauj Jheel (UP) · 2026-10-15 · official
- [2] The Hindu: As climate risks become harder to predict and insure, India must price catastrophe without leaving people unprotected · 2026-10-15 · newspaper