India’s commitment to wetland conservation has been significantly bolstered in 2025, with the country’s total number of Ramsar sites growing from 85 to 93. This notable increase underscores a proactive approach to protecting these vital ecosystems. The new additions, spanning across Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and Bihar, highlight the diverse nature of wetlands and their critical importance for biodiversity, climate resilience, and local livelihoods.
This article details the description and significance of all eight wetlands newly designated as Ramsar sites in 2025.
New Ramsar Sites in 2025
1. Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu (Ramsar Site 86)
- Description: Located in the Ramanathapuram district, this peri-urban wetland is fed by the Vaigai River’s tributaries. It is a man-made water body that serves as a crucial habitat for various waterbirds. The sanctuary’s notable feature is the extensive growth of Babul (Acacia nilotica) trees, which provide ideal nesting sites for birds.
- Significance: The sanctuary plays a vital role in flood control and soil erosion prevention. It is a critical stopover and breeding ground for migratory birds and is home to several threatened species, including the Vulnerable Indian Spotted Eagle and the Endangered Egyptian Vulture. Its role in nutrient removal from agricultural runoff also makes it ecologically significant.
2. Therthangal Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu (Ramsar Site 87)
- Description: Also located in Ramanathapuram district, this wetland is a marshy lake fed by small rivulets from the Vaigai and Gundar rivers. The water body is seasonal, filling up during the rainy season.
- Significance: Lying on the Central Asian Flyway, this sanctuary is a crucial refuge for a large number of migratory birds, including grebes, pelicans, and storks. It supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the Endangered Egyptian Vulture and the Indian Spotted Eagle. The site also provides water for local agriculture, highlighting the human-wetland coexistence.
3. Khecheopalli Lake, Sikkim (Ramsar Site 88)
- Description: Known as a sacred “wish-fulfilling” lake, this wetland is a temperate Himalayan high-altitude ecosystem located in the Gyalshing district. The central lake is surrounded by peatland and a temperate forest of evergreen trees.
- Significance: This site is of immense religious and cultural importance to the Sikkimese communities. Ecologically, it is a significant refuge for more than 680 species, including the Critically Endangered Baer’s Pochard, the Endangered Red Panda, and the Vulnerable Himalayan Black Bear. It is a major pilgrimage and tourist destination, showcasing the intersection of nature and culture.
4. Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary, Jharkhand (Ramsar Site 89)
- Description: The first Ramsar site in Jharkhand, this wetland complex is located in the Sahebganj district and consists of two interconnected lakes: Pataura and Barhel. It is a natural wetland situated in the alluvial plains of the Ganga River.
- Significance: Designated as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA), the sanctuary provides a habitat for over 146 bird species, including numerous migratory birds that use the Central Asian Flyway. It is a crucial habitat for threatened species like the Asian Woolly-necked Stork and the Lesser Adjutant Stork. The wetland also supports over 45 species of fish and has historical significance from the Battle of Udhwa in 1763.
5. Khichan Wetland, Rajasthan (Ramsar Site 90)
- Description: Situated in the northern Thar Desert in the newly created Phalodi district, this wetland consists of two water bodies, Ratri Nadi and Vijaysagar Talab, along with surrounding scrubland.
- Significance: Khichan is internationally renowned for hosting a massive wintering flock of migratory Demoiselle Cranes, locally known as Kurja. The site is a remarkable example of human-wildlife coexistence, with local villagers actively feeding and protecting the cranes. This community-led conservation effort is a key reason for the wetland’s significance. It also supports over 150 bird species, including critically endangered vultures.
6. Menar Wetland Complex, Rajasthan (Ramsar Site 91)
- Description: This complex is a freshwater monsoon wetland located in the Udaipur district. It is a mosaic of three ponds—Braham Talab, Dhand Talab, and Kheroda Talab—and agricultural land that gets inundated during the monsoon season.
- Significance: The Menar Wetland Complex is recognized as one of Rajasthan’s best examples of community-led conservation. The residents of Menar village actively work to protect the site from poaching and fishing. It is home to 110 species of waterbirds, including the Critically Endangered White-rumped Vulture and Long-billed Vulture. The site also hosts a large colony of Indian Flying Fox.
7. Udaypur Lake, Bihar (Ramsar Site 92)
- Description: Located in the West Champaran district of Bihar, Udaypur Lake is an oxbow lake within the Udaypur Wildlife Sanctuary, a floodplain of the Gandaki River.
- Significance: This sanctuary, with its predominantly wetland area, is a haven for a variety of resident and migratory birds. It plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, supporting diverse flora and fauna within the Lower Gangetic Plains moist deciduous forests ecoregion. Its designation highlights Bihar’s commitment to conserving its rich wetland heritage.
8. Gokul Reservoir, Bihar (Ramsar Site 93)
- Description: The second new Ramsar site in Bihar, Gokul Reservoir (or Jalashay) is located in the Buxar district. It is formed by the flooding of the Ganga River during the monsoon season.
- Significance: This site is an important habitat for over 50 species of birds and provides essential resources for local communities, including fishing and irrigation. Its recognition as a Ramsar site underscores its ecological value and its contribution to the livelihoods of the local people. The reservoir helps in flood management and is a vital part of the region’s ecosystem.
