NEW DELHI: Much to the delight of the bird lovers and tourists, Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh has been awaded with the tag of prestigious Ramsar site, taking India’s total to 99 and the State’s tally to 12.
This was announced by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav recently who took up to the social media about the new designation to the water body.
“Uttar Pradesh takes the score to 99! Delighted to announce the designation of Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary (Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh) as a Ramsar site”, the Minister informed on the social media X.
He said the announcement brings a boost for local livelihoods and global biodiversity, along with water and climate security and marks “India’s 99th, bringing us closer to a historic century”.
“With PM Shri @narendramodi ji leading India’s ecosystem restoration mission, our commitment towards conservation of wetlands and natural habitat of animals, particularly that of birds, has yet again received a thumbs up from the global community,” the Minister added.
Highlighting the ecological importance of the site, Yadav said Shekha Jheel acts as a crucial stopover on the Central Asian Flyway, providing a vital habitat for migratory birds such as the Bar-headed Goose, Painted Stork and various ducks during the winter season. The Minister also encouraged people to visit the site.
The Ramsar designation, governed by the Ramsar Convention, is accorded to wetlands that are of international importance, particularly for their biodiversity, ecological functions, and role in sustaining human livelihoods. With this addition, India’s total number of Ramsar sites has risen to 99, placing it among countries with the largest network of protected wetlands globally.
Among the prominent species that visit the wetland during winters are the Bar-headed Goose, known for its high-altitude Himalayan crossings, the Painted Stork, and several species of ducks and waders. These migratory patterns underline the wetland’s ecological value as a feeding, breeding, and resting ground.
The Ramsar recognition is also expected to have socio-economic implications. By promoting eco-tourism and birdwatching, the site could generate livelihood opportunities for local communities, including guides, small vendors, and conservation workers. At the same time, it imposes responsibilities on authorities to ensure sustainable management, prevent encroachment, and regulate pollution.
India has significantly expanded its Ramsar network in recent years, reflecting a policy push towards environmental sustainability and ecosystem restoration. Uttar Pradesh, in particular, has emerged as a leading State in wetland conservation, with 12 Ramsar sites, including notable ones like Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary and Sandi Bird Sanctuary.
As India inches towards achieving a century of Ramsar sites, the spotlight is increasingly on how effectively these wetlands are protected and integrated into long-term environmental planning.
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