India has made a big move for nature by adding two bird sanctuaries from Bihar, Nagi and Nakti, to its list of Ramsar Sites. These sanctuaries, located in the beautiful Jhajha forest range of Jamui District, bring India’s total Ramsar Sites count to 82. This shows India’s dedication to protecting important wetlands around the world.

Both Nagi and Nakti bird sanctuaries, recognized as ‘Wetlands of International Importance,’ are man-made reservoirs nestled within Bihar’s verdant landscapes. Their designation as Ramsar Sites, announced on World Environment Day, underscores their ecological significance and the urgent need for their protection.

The Ramsar Convention, an international treaty aimed at conserving wetlands, recognizes the importance of Nagi and Nakti sanctuaries in sustaining fragile ecosystems and safeguarding biodiversity.

The Ramsar designation of Nagi and Nakti sanctuaries also brings attention to the critical role played by wetlands in mitigating the impacts of climate change. These sanctuaries act as carbon sinks, absorbing greenhouse gases and helping to regulate the climate. Additionally, they provide invaluable services such as flood control, water purification, and shoreline stabilization.

Covering a vast area of 791 and 333 hectares respectively, Nagi and Nakti sanctuaries are nestled amidst lush dry forests and rugged hills. Since they were declared Bird Sanctuaries in 1984, these special places have hosted lively gatherings of birds. The latest Asiatic Waterbird Census (AWC) conducted in 2023 confirms the significant contribution of Nagi and Nakti sanctuaries to bird conservation. Nakti sanctuary stands out as a prime location for birds, hosting a remarkable 7,844 birds. Following closely behind is Nagi sanctuary, with 6,938 bird residents. This highlights their crucial role in supporting migratory bird populations.

Wetlands are one of the most threatened of all ecosystems in India. Loss of vegetation, salinization, excessive inundation, water pollution, invasive species, excessive development and road building, have all damaged the country’s wetlands. Tamil Nadu has the highest number of Ramsar Sites in India with 16 Ramsar Sites. If we talk about central India landscape, Madhya Pradesh has 4 Ramasar Site, Maharashtra has 3, Orissa has 6. Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh has 0 (ZERO) Ramasar site till date.