New Ramsar Sites

03.02.2025

New Ramsar Sites

Why in the news?                        

Recently, four more wetlands from India have got an international tag of Ramsar Convention sites.

About New Ramsar Sites Added:

Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary:

• Location: Tamil Nadu
• It is a unique mosaic wetland ecosystem located close to the Gulf of Mannar on the Central Asian flyway, a regular route for the migratory birds that comes from Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
• This wetland acts as a breeding ground for several Resident/Resident-Migrant species of waterfowls.

Therthangal Bird Sanctuary:

• Location: Tamil Nadu
• It lies along the Central Asian Flyway and are critical breeding and foraging grounds for waterbirds.
• It plays a crucial role in climate regulation, recharging of groundwater, and irrigation.
• The sanctuary is home for many important endemic and near threatened species including the Painted stork, Black-headed ibis, Spot-billed pelican, Oriental darter and Pallied harrier among others

Udhwa Lake:

• Location: Jharkhand
• It is named after saint Uddhava of Mahabharat times, a friend of Lord Krishna.
• It falls within the Gangetic Plains bio-geographic zone.
• The Sanctuary has two water bodies i.e. Patauran (155 ha) and Berhale (410 ha), interconnected by a water channel. Patauran is a comparatively clean water body.
• It is the first Ramsar designated wetland from Jharkhand.

Khecheopalri Lake:

• Location: Sikkim
• It is a sacred gem revered by both Buddhists and Hindus.
• It is known as a wish-fulfilling lake, its tranquil waters are believed to be blessed by Guru Padmasambhava and the Goddess Tara.
• It is surrounded by lush forests and the mystical aura of ancient legends, this enchanting lake, part of the revered Demazong valley.

                                                           Source: The Times of India

Consider the following statements regarding the Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary:

Statement-I: It is a unique mosaic wetland ecosystem located in the State of Kerala.

Statement-II: It has recently received Ramsar site designation.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

A.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I.

B.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I.

C.Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect.

D.Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct.

Answer D