Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. They act as natural water filters, help control floods, recharge groundwater, and provide habitats for numerous plant and animal species.
AFCAT 2 2026 Exam Static GK – Ramsar & Lakes in India
To conserve wetlands of international importance, the Ramsar Convention was established in 1971. India has emerged as one of the leading countries in wetland conservation through the designation of Ramsar Sites across the nation.
As of 2026, India has 98 Ramsar Sites, making it one of the countries with the largest network of internationally recognized wetlands in the world. Two new wetlands—Patna Bird Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh and Chhari-Dhand in Gujarat—were added in 2026.
What is the Ramsar Convention?
The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. It was adopted in 1971 in the city of Ramsar, Iran.
Key Facts
- Signed in 1971 at Ramsar, Iran.
- Came into force in 1975.
- India became a signatory in 1982.
- The convention promotes the conservation and wise use of wetlands.
- Wetlands designated under this convention are known as Ramsar Sites.
Ramsar Sites in India 2026
India’s Ramsar network has expanded significantly over the past decade. As of 2026, the country has 99 Ramsar Sites covering more than 13 lakh hectares of wetland area. Tamil Nadu has the highest number of Ramsar Sites among all states. As of mid-2026, India has 99 Ramsar sites (wetlands of international importance) covering over 1.36 million hectares. Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh is the newest addition, designated as the 99th site.
Recent Additions (2026)
- Patna Bird Sanctuary – Uttar Pradesh
- Chhari-Dhand Wetland – Gujarat
- Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary – UP
These additions increased India’s Ramsar Site count to 99.
Top Key Facts
- Highest Number: Tamil Nadu leads with 20 sites.
- Largest Site: Sundarbans, West Bengal.
- Smallest Site: Renuka Wetland, Himachal Pradesh.
- First Sites: Chilika Lake (Odisha) and Keoladeo (Rajasthan).
- Montreux Record (Threatened): Keoladeo National Park and Loktak Lake
Importance of Ramsar Sites
Ecological Importance
- Support biodiversity and wildlife habitats.
- Provide breeding grounds for migratory birds.
- Protect endangered species.
Environmental Importance
- Reduce flood risks.
- Recharge groundwater.
- Improve water quality.
Economic Importance
- Support fisheries and agriculture.
- Promote eco-tourism.
- Provide livelihoods to local communities.
Major Ramsar Lakes in India
Chilika Lake
- Located in Odisha.
- Largest coastal lagoon in India.
- First Indian wetland designated as a Ramsar Site in 1981.
- Famous for Irrawaddy dolphins and migratory birds.
Loktak Lake
- Largest freshwater lake in Northeast India.
- Known for floating islands called Phumdis.
- Home to the endangered Sangai deer.
Wular Lake
- One of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia.
- Important for flood control in the Kashmir Valley.
Vembanad Lake
- Longest lake in India.
- Famous for backwater tourism.
- Supports rich biodiversity.
Kolleru Lake
- Major freshwater lake situated between the Krishna and Godavari river deltas.
- Important habitat for migratory birds.
Sambhar Lake
- Largest inland saline lake in India.
- Important source of salt production.
Renuka Lake
- Largest natural lake in Himachal Pradesh.
- Associated with Hindu mythology.
Deepor Beel
- Freshwater wetland near Guwahati.
- Important bird habitat and Ramsar Site.
Important Lakes of India for Competitive Exams
| Lake | State/UT | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Chilika Lake | Odisha | Largest coastal lagoon |
| Wular Lake | Jammu & Kashmir | One of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes |
| Loktak Lake | Manipur | Floating islands (Phumdis) |
| Vembanad Lake | Kerala | Longest lake in India |
| Sambhar Lake | Rajasthan | Largest inland saltwater lake |
| Kolleru Lake | Andhra Pradesh | Major freshwater wetland |
| Pulicat Lake | Andhra Pradesh & Tamil Nadu | Second-largest brackish water lagoon |
| Dal Lake | Jammu & Kashmir | Famous tourist attraction |
| Hussain Sagar | Telangana | Artificial lake in Hyderabad |
| Renuka Lake | Himachal Pradesh | Largest natural lake in the state |
Montreux Record
The Montreux Record is a register of Ramsar Sites where ecological changes have occurred or are likely to occur due to human activities.
Indian Ramsar Sites on the Montreux Record
- Keoladeo National Park
- Loktak Lake
These sites require priority conservation measures.
Key Exam Facts
Largest inland saline lake: Sambhar Lake
Ramsar Convention signed: 1971
Venue: Ramsar, Iran
India joined: 1982
Total Ramsar Sites in India (2026): 98
State with highest Ramsar Sites: Tamil Nadu
Largest Ramsar Site in India: Sundarbans
First Ramsar Sites in India: Chilika Lake and Keoladeo National Park
Largest coastal lagoon: Chilika Lake
Largest freshwater lake in India: Wular Lake
