In News: The Union Environment Minister announced the addition of Patna Bird Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh) and Chhari-Dhand Wetland Reserve (Gujarat) to India’s Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance, bringing the total count to 98 sites.
1. Patna Bird Sanctuary (Etah, UP)
- Established: 1991
- Significance: Smallest bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh
- Habitat Type: Freshwater wetland
- Key Fauna:
- Aquatic birds such as Lesser Whistling-Duck, Graylag Goose, Comb Duck, Ruddy Shelduck, Gadwall, Eurasian Wigeon, Indian Spot-billed Duck, Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail
- Conservation Importance: Protects migratory and resident aquatic bird species and supports wetland biodiversity in inland UP.
2. Chhari-Dhand Wetland Reserve (Kutch, Gujarat)
- Location: Edge of arid Banni grasslands and marshy salt flats of the Rann of Kutch
- Meaning of Name:
- Chhari = salty
- Dhand = shallow wetlands
- Habitat Type: Seasonal salt marshes and shallow wetlands
- Key Fauna:
- Endangered species including Dalmatian Pelican, Oriental Darter, Black-necked Stork, Indian Skimmer
- Unique Feature: Famous for “Chir Batti” or ghost lights — an unexplained glowing phenomenon observed on dark nights across the Banni grasslands.
- Conservation Importance: Supports migratory birds and maintains ecological balance in the arid-semi-arid landscape of western India.
Significance of Ramsar Designation
1Recognises wetlands of international importance for ecology, biodiversity, and hydrology.
2Promotes sustainable management, protection of habitat for migratory and endangered species.
3Strengthens India’s commitments under the Ramsar Convention (1971), supporting wetland conservation and wise use.
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
