"Reflects journey of policy, protection and preservation": UP CM welcomes new Ramsar sites at Patna Bird Sanctuary, Chhari-Dhand
Lucknow, January 31
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday welcomed the inclusion of Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah and Chhari-Dhand in Gujarat as Ramsar sites.
He said the recognition reflects India's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
Ramsar Sites are wetlands of international importance designated under the criteria of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands for containing representative, rare or unique wetland types or for their importance in conserving biological diversity.
In a post on X, CM Yogi said, "Under the visionary leadership of Hon. PM Shri@narendramodiji, India's commitment to environmental conservation continues to earn global recognition. The inclusion of Patna Bird Sanctuary, Etah (Uttar Pradesh) and Chhari-Dhand, Kutch (Gujarat) as Ramsar Sites reflects a journey of policy, protection and preservation, where ecology and development advance together."
"This international honour underscores India's resolve for sustainable stewardship, ecological balance and biodiversity protection. Congratulations to the people of Etah, Uttar Pradesh and all stakeholders dedicated to wetland conservation," the post read.
Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch, Gujarat, have been added to the Ramsar sites list.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also hailed the recognition as a milestone in India's efforts to protect wetlands and safeguard biodiversity.
In a post on X, PM Modi wrote, "Delighted that the Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah (Uttar Pradesh) and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch (Gujarat) are Ramsar sites. Congratulations to the local population there as well as all those passionate about wetland conservation."
"These recognitions reaffirm our commitment to preserving biodiversity and protecting vital ecosystems. May these wetlands continue to thrive as safe habitats for countless migratory and native species," the post read.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav also congratulated the local communities and conservationists for their role in protecting these vital wetlands.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good step, but the real test is on-ground implementation. We've seen Ramsar sites like Loktak Lake in Manipur face severe threats despite the tag. Hope the government ensures strict protection and involves local communities meaningfully, not just on paper.
Chhari-Dhand in Kutch is a critical habitat, especially for the endangered Indian Wild Ass. Global recognition is a proud moment for Gujarat and India. Jai Hind!
As a birder, this is fantastic! India's wetland conservation efforts seem to be gaining momentum. Hope this inspires more states to identify and protect their vital wetlands. The ecological services they provide are irreplaceable.
It's heartening to see ecology and development being mentioned together. For too long it was seen as a choice. Sustainable stewardship is the need of the hour. Kudos to all the forest officials and NGOs working silently on the ground.
My family is from near Etah. The sanctuary is a source of local pride and also helps farmers with water recharge. This news made my day! Hope the authorities now control the plastic waste problem in the surrounding areas.
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