Nagi and Nakti Bird Sanctuaries added to Ramsar List

IN NEWS: Nagi and Nakti Bird Sanctuaries added to Ramsar List

Analysis

• Two wetlands of Bihar — Nagi Bird Sanctuary and Nakti Bird Sanctuary — have been designated as Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.
• With this addition, India now equals China with 82 Ramsar sites each, while the United Kingdom leads globally.
• Both wetlands are located in Jamui district, Bihar, within the Jhajha forest range.
• The declaration was made on the occasion of World Environment Day (5 June).
• The sites are man-made reservoirs formed due to dam construction and are surrounded by dry deciduous forests and hilly terrain.
• The recognition is expected to strengthen wetland conservation and migratory bird protection efforts in Bihar.

Ecological Significance

• Nakti Bird Sanctuary:
  • Developed through the construction of the Nakti Dam primarily for irrigation.
  • Provides habitat to 150+ species of birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and aquatic plants.
  • Hosts globally threatened species, including the endangered Indian elephant and vulnerable Wallago attu (catfish).
  • Declared a Bird Sanctuary in 1984; supports over 20,000 migratory birds during winter, including one of the largest congregations of Red-crested Pochard in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
• Nagi Bird Sanctuary:
  • Formed after the damming of the Nagi River, leading to the development of clear-water wetlands with aquatic vegetation.
  • Declared a Bird Sanctuary in 1984 and later recognised as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) by BirdLife International.
  • Supports 75+ bird species, 33 fish species, and 12 aquatic plant species.
  • Hosts one of the largest congregations of Bar-headed Geese in the Indo-Gangetic Plain.

Background (Static Part)

• Ramsar Convention:
  • Officially known as the Convention on Wetlands.
  • An international environmental treaty signed on 2 February 1971 in Ramsar, Iran.
  • Operates under the auspices of UNESCO.
  • Aims at the conservation and wise use of wetlands through national action and international cooperation.
• Ramsar Site:
  • A wetland designated to be of international importance, especially for biodiversity and migratory birds.

Updated – 07 June 2024; 12:24 PM IST | News Source:

The Economic Times