India has now designated 103 wetlands as Ramsar sites, the international standard for recognising wetlands of global importance. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced on 15 October 2026 that Sukhna Wetland in Chandigarh and Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh have been added to this list. Ramsar sites are designated under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty focused on protecting and restoring wetlands and their biodiversity.
Key facts
- Total Ramsar sites in India: 103
- Two new designations: Sukhna Wetland (Chandigarh) and Sauj Jheel (Uttar Pradesh)
- Announcement date: 15 October 2026
- Announced by: Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav
What is a Ramsar site?
The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is a global agreement signed by countries to protect and manage wetlands of international importance. When a wetland receives Ramsar designation, it means the site meets specific criteria related to its ecological, botanical, zoological, limnological or hydrological importance. These sites become part of an international network dedicated to wetland conservation. The designation brings both recognition and responsibility to protect these ecosystems from degradation.
Significance of the new additions
Sukhna Wetland, located in Chandigarh, and Sauj Jheel, located in Uttar Pradesh, are now recognised for their contribution to biodiversity conservation. The Ministry highlighted that these wetlands support not only ecological functions but also provide climate security and sustain the livelihoods of local communities. Wetlands play a critical role in water storage, flood regulation, and acting as carbon sinks in the fight against climate change. They also provide habitat for migratory birds and fish species that support fishing communities.
India’s wetland conservation progress
This addition represents the continuation of India’s efforts to expand its network of protected wetlands. By reaching 103 Ramsar sites, India demonstrates its commitment to the international wetland conservation framework. The government has positioned wetland protection as a key priority under its environmental policy, linking it to biodiversity conservation, water security, and climate action. Each new designation adds to the collective effort to preserve these ecosystems across different regions of the country.
Why wetlands matter
Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth. They filter water, recharge groundwater, prevent flooding, and support food chains. For India, wetlands are particularly important because they provide water security in a country facing increasing water stress. Many wetlands also hold cultural and economic significance, serving as spawning grounds for fish, resting areas for migratory birds, and sources of traditional livelihoods. Their degradation threatens both biodiversity and human communities that depend on them.
What this means for you
If you live near Sukhna Wetland or Sauj Jheel, the Ramsar designation may lead to stricter environmental protections and management practices for these areas. The status can attract conservation funding and research attention. For travellers and nature enthusiasts, these sites are now formally recognised as important natural destinations worth visiting. Local communities may see opportunities linked to eco-tourism as these sites become part of India’s international conservation portfolio. Students studying environmental science and wetland ecology will find these sites significant for research and learning about conservation practices.
What happens next
The designations are now official, and these wetlands will be managed according to Ramsar Convention guidelines and India’s wetland conservation policies. The sites will be included in periodic reviews to assess their ecological health and the effectiveness of conservation measures.