TWO NEW RAMSAR SITES IN BIHAR

Context
 India has added two new Ramsar sites in Bihar, Gokul Jalashay and Udaipur Jheel, raising the national tally of wetlands of international importance to 93. With this, India has consolidated its position as the leading Asian nation in Ramsar sites and the third largest globally.

Gokul Jalashay (Buxar)

• Type: Oxbow lake on Ganga’s southern edge
• Ecological Role: Natural flood buffer for nearby villages
• Biodiversity: Habitat for 50+ bird species
• Community Role: Supports fishing, farming, irrigation; hosts annual cleaning festival

Udaipur Jheel (West Champaran)

• Type: Oxbow lake surrounding a village
• Floral Diversity: 280+ plant species, including endemic Alysicarpus roxburghianus
• Avifauna: Wintering site for ~35 migratory birds, including vulnerable Common Pochard
• Livelihood: Provides fishing, farming, and water resources for locals.

Ramsar Sites: What They Are

• Definition: Wetlands of international importance, recognized under the Ramsar Convention (1971).
   
• Objective: Promote the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands as ecosystems crucial for biodiversity, water security, and livelihoods.
   
• Origin: Adopted in Ramsar, Iran (1971); entered into force in 1975 under UNESCO’s framework.
   
• Key Features:
   
  • Offers a global platform for national action and international cooperation
     
  • Prioritizes wetlands essential for migratory birds, endangered species, fisheries, hydrological stability, and flood control
     

India and Ramsar Sites

• Current Total (Sept 2025): 93 wetlands, covering 13.6 lakh hectares
   
• Growth: From 26 sites (2012) to 93 sites (2025), with 51 additions since 2020
   
• Global Standing:
   
  • 3rd worldwide (after UK – 176 sites, Mexico – 144 sites)
     
  • 1st in Asia for the number of Ramsar sites
     
• Bihar: Now has 5 Ramsar sites, strengthening its role in wetland conservation
   

Significance of the New Additions

• Biodiversity Conservation: Protects habitats for endemic plants and vulnerable migratory birds
   
• Disaster Mitigation: Acts as natural flood regulators in Ganga’s floodplain landscape
   
• Livelihood Support: Ensures sustainable fishing, farming, and water availability for local communities
   
• Global Recognition: Enhances India’s profile in international wetland governance and conservation efforts

Conclusion

The recognition of Gokul Jalashay and Udaipur Jheel as Ramsar sites underscores India’s commitment to wetland conservation, ecological resilience, and community livelihoods. By expanding its Ramsar footprint, India not only safeguards biodiversity but also strengthens disaster resilience and reinforces its global leadership in wetland protection.