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GS Paper: GS3-18.Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.

  • Ocean Coordination Mechanism (OCM)

    Why in the News?

    The Ocean Coordination Mechanism (OCM) was recently announced by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO on January 14, 2025.

    What is Ocean Coordination Mechanism (OCM)?

    • The OCM, launched by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, aims to enhance marine conservation and resource management.
    • It focuses on the Caribbean and North Brazil Shelf, regions with rich biodiversity, coral reefs, and fisheries generating $610 million annually.
    • The OCM promotes Blue Carbon Projects, using coastal ecosystems for carbon storage, benefiting both climate resilience and local communities.
    • It has secured $15 million in funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) under the UNDP/GEF PROCARIBE+ Project, with an additional $126.02 million in co-financing.

    Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO

    • Established in 1961, the IOC/UNESCO promotes marine science cooperation for sustainable ocean governance.
    • It operates in key areas:
      • Ocean science research:  Supports studies on climate change, biodiversity, and sustainability.
      • Tsunami warning systems:  Maintains early warning mechanisms to mitigate risks.
      • Ocean observations:  Collects and analyzes oceanographic data for policy-making.
    • The IOC leads the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030), known as the “Ocean Decade”, advancing global marine conservation efforts.

     

    Ocean Coordination Mechanism (OCM)

    About the Caribbean Sea

    • The Caribbean Sea is part of the North Atlantic Ocean, located south of the Gulf of Mexico and southwest of the Sargasso Sea.
    • Bordering Nations:
      • Greater Antilles – Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola (Haiti & Dominican Republic), Puerto Rico.
      • Lesser Antilles – Includes islands from Virgin Islands to Trinidad & Tobago.
      • South America – Borders Venezuela & Colombia.
      • Central America – Includes Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, Belize.
    • Key Features:
      • Deepest Point – The Cayman Trough, at 7,686 meters below sea level.
      • Mesoamerican Barrier Reef – Second-largest barrier reef globally, stretching 1,000 km.
      • Major Gulfs and Bays – Includes Gulf of Venezuela, Gulf of Honduras, and Gulf of Darién.
    • The Caribbean Sea supports rich biodiversity but faces threats from climate change, pollution, and overfishing, making conservation efforts like OCM essential for sustainability.

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements :​

    1. The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for seabed exploration and mining in international waters.​

    2. India has received licences for seabed mineral exploration in international waters.​

    3. ‘Rare earth minerals’ are present on seafloor in international waters.​

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only ​

    (b) 2 and 3 only​

    (c) 1 and 3 only ​

    (d) 1, 2 and 3​

  • Centre clears exploratory drilling in Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

    Why in the News?

    Exploratory drilling for oil and gas has been approved within the eco-sensitive zone surrounding the Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary.

    About the Hollongapar Gibbon WLS

    • Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary was initially established as Hollongapar Reserve Forest in 1997 and renamed in 2004.
    • It is the only habitat for hollock gibbons in India.
    • Located in Assam, with the Bhogdoi River along its northern boundary.
    • Biome classified as plains alluvial semi-evergreen forests with patches of wet evergreen forests.
    • Flora:
      • Upper canopy: Dominated by Hollong trees (Dipterocarpus macrocarpus), Sam, Amari, Sopas, Bhelu, Udal, and Hingori.
      • Middle canopy: Features Nahar trees.
      • Lower canopy: Composed of evergreen shrubs and herbs.
    • Fauna:
      • Primates: Includes Hoolock Gibbons, Bengal Slow Loris (only nocturnal primate in Northeast India), stump-tailed macaques, northern pig-tailed macaques, eastern Assamese macaques, rhesus macaques, and capped langurs.
      • Other mammals: Indian elephants, tigers, leopards, jungle cats, wild boars, civets, squirrels, and more.

    About the Hoolock Gibbons:

    • Gibbons are the smallest and fastest apes, and they inhabit tropical and subtropical forests across Southeast Asia.
    • It is the only ape specie found in India.
    • They possess high intelligence, exhibit distinct personalities, and have strong familial bonds, reflecting characteristics similar to other ape species.
    • The current population of hoolock gibbons is estimated at around 12,000, found primarily in Northeast India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and southern China.
    • Two distinct species, the eastern hoolock gibbon (Hoolock leuconedys) and the western hoolock gibbon (Hoolock hoolock), were previously reported in India.
    • Conservation Status
      • IUCN Red List: the western hoolock gibbon is classified as Endangered, and the eastern hoolock gibbon is classified as Vulnerable.
      • Both gibbon species in India are placed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

     

    PYQ:

    [2010] Consider the following pairs:

    Protected Area:: Well-known for

    1. Bhitarkanika, Orissa :: Salt Water Crocodile

    2. Desert National Park, Rajasthan :: Great Indian Bustard

    3. Eravikulam, Kerala :: Hoolock Gibbon

    Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 2 only

    (c) 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • NGT issues notice to Centre on use of invasive fish species for mosquito control

    Why in the News?

    The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sought a response from the Central government regarding the use of two highly invasive and alien fish species—Gambusia affinis (Mosquitofish) and Poecilia reticulata (Guppy)—as biological agents for mosquito control in multiple states.

    Both species are classified as “invasive and alien” by the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA).

    About Gambusia Affinis (Western Mosquitofish)

    • It has been widely introduced worldwide as a biological control agent to reduce mosquito populations.
    • The mosquitofish primarily feeds on mosquito larvae, small insects, and zooplankton.
    • Despite its intended benefits, Gambusia affinis has been identified as one of the world’s most invasive species.
    • It is highly aggressive and competes with native fish for resources.
    • It also preys on the eggs and juveniles of indigenous fish, amphibians, and invertebrates, leading to a decline in local biodiversity.
    • The Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) has listed it among the 100 worst invasive species globally due to its harmful ecological impact.

    About Poecilia Reticulata (Guppy, Millionfish, Rainbow Fish)

    • Poecilia reticulata, commonly known as the Guppy, Millionfish, or Rainbow Fish, is a small freshwater fish native to Northern South America and the Caribbean.
    • It is widely recognized for its vibrant colors and adaptability, making it a popular choice for both aquarium enthusiasts and mosquito control programs worldwide.
    • It is a highly adaptable species, capable of surviving in a variety of freshwater environments.
    • Guppies are omnivorous, feeding on mosquito larvae, small insects, algae, and organic detritus.
    • Their feeding habits make them a common choice for mosquito control programs, although their effectiveness is still debated.
    • While guppies are less aggressive than mosquitofish, their population growth can still disrupt local ecosystems.

    PYQ:

    [2023] ‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following?

    (a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
    (b) Converting crop residues into packing material
    (c) Producing biodegradable plastics
    (d) Producing biochar from thermo-chemical conversion of biomass

  • Inland Mangrove of Guneri

    Why in the News?

    The Gujarat government has declared the Guneri Inland Mangrove in Kutch as the state’s first Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) under The Biological Diversity Act, 2002.

    Inland Mangrove of Guneri

    Quick Facts about Mangroves in India:

    • “Red List of Mangrove Ecosystems” report released on May 22 (International Day for Biodiversity), 2024.
    • India holds 3% of South Asia’s total mangrove cover.
    • Mangrove cover increased by 54 sq km (1.10%), reaching 4,975 sq km (0.15% of India’s total area).
    • West Bengal leads (42.45%), followed by Gujarat (23.66%) and Andaman & Nicobar Islands (12.39%).
    • South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, alone contributes 41.85% of India’s mangrove cover, including Sundarbans National Park.
    • Gujarat recorded the highest increase, adding 37 sq km of mangrove cover.

    About Guneri Inland Mangroves:

    • Guneri Inland Mangroves (32.78 hectares) are a rare and unique mangrove ecosystem located in Kutch district, Gujarat.
    • It is India’s last remaining inland mangrove site and one of only eight such sites globally.
    • Unlike coastal mangroves, which thrive in tidal zones, Guneri mangroves exist inland without direct seawater contact.
    • These mangroves have historical and ecological significance, possibly originating after the Miocene marine transgression or forming along the banks of the ancient Saraswati River in the Great Rann of Kutch.

    Geographical Features:

    • It is located about 45 km from the Arabian Sea and 4 km from Kori Creek.
    • Terrain:
      • Flat land, unlike coastal mangroves that grow in muddy, tidal zones.
      • Devoid of sludge, making it resemble a forest rather than a typical mangrove swamp.
    • Water Source:
      • Thrives on limestone deposits, which help retain groundwater to sustain the mangroves.
      • No direct tidal water influx, relying entirely on underground water connectivity.
    • Biodiversity:
      • Home to 20 migratory bird species and 25 resident migratory avifaunal species.
      • Functions as a vital habitat for local and seasonal wildlife.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which one of the following regions of India has a combination of mangrove forest, evergreen forest and deciduous forest?

    (a) North Coastal Andhra Pradesh

    (b) South-West Bengal

    (c) Southern Saurashtra

    (d) Andaman and Nicobar Islands

  • Four new sites to get Ramsar Tag

    Why in the News?

    Ahead of World Wetlands Day (February 2nd), the Environment Ministry announced the inclusion of four new Ramsar sites, bringing India’s total to 89.

    The newly designated sites are Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary and Therthangal Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu, Khecheopalri Wetland in Sikkim, and Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary in Jharkhand.  With this, Tamil Nadu now has 20 Ramsar sites, the highest in the country, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 10 sites.

    About the Newly Added Ramsar Sites: 

    Description
    Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu
    • Location: Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu.
    • Originally an irrigation tank, now a designated bird sanctuary.
    • Recharged by northeast monsoon (Oct-Jan).
    • Supports 42+ bird species, including Spot-billed Pelican, Grey Heron, Little Cormorant, and Black Kite.
    Therthangal Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu
    • Location: Theerthangal Village, Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu.
    • A freshwater ecosystem and an important breeding ground for waterbirds.
    • Recorded 96 bird species across 18 orders and 44 families.
    • Notable species include Oriental Darter, Black-headed Ibis, Asian Woolly-necked Stork, and Spot-billed Pelican.
    Khecheopalri Wetland, Sikkim
    • Location: West Sikkim, near Khecheopalri Village.
    • A sacred lake revered by Buddhists and Hindus.
    • Part of a temperate Himalayan peatland ecosystem, surrounded by broad-leaved mixed temperate forests.
    • Flora: Rich in macrophytes, phytoplankton, and zooplankton.
    • Fauna: Supports fish species like Cyprinus carpio, Danio aequipinnatus, and various migratory birds (Common Merganser, Tufted Duck).
    Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary, Jharkhand
    • Location: Sahebganj District, Jharkhand.
    • Comprises two interconnected lakes: Pataura (155 ha) and Berhale (410 ha).
    • Connected to the Ganga River via the Udhuwa Nala (25 km stretch).
    • Pataura Lake depth: ~2 meters; Berhale Lake depth: ~70 cm, covered with aquatic vegetation.
    • Flora: Home to 42 algae species and 36 aquatic macrophytes.
    • Fauna: Habitat for 83 bird species, including the Near Threatened Black-necked Stork and 22 commercially valuable fish species.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.
    2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of Ramsar Convention.
    3. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 3

  • In news: Palar River

    Why in the News?

    The British-era Palar River Anaicut, a masonry check dam built in 1858, is undergoing a major restoration following severe structural damage caused by the 2021 floods.

    Supreme Court’s Directives:

    • The Supreme Court (SC) has directed that all restoration activities must adhere to environmental protection laws and sustainable development principles.
    • The WRD must ensure that the restored structure can withstand future floods and water releases.
    • The SC emphasized local farmers’ involvement in decision-making, considering the impact on irrigation and water availability.

    In news: Palar River

    About Palar River

    • The Palar River originates in the Nandi Hills of Karnataka, at an altitude of 1,400 meters above sea level.
    • It flows through Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, covering a total length of 348 km before emptying into the Bay of Bengal near Vayalur, Tamil Nadu.
    • Important tributaries include Cheyyar, Ponnai, Malattar, and Kosasthalaiyar rivers.
    • The river has been a lifeline for agriculture, supporting ancient civilizations and irrigation networks in South India.
    • Geographical Features: 
      • It is rain-fed, experiencing seasonal variations—it remains dry for most of the year but carries heavy flows during monsoons.
      • Its basin consists of alluvial, red, and black soil, supporting paddy, sugarcane, and groundnut cultivation.
      • It is heavily dammed, leading to reduced flow, sand mining concerns, and groundwater depletion.
      • The Palar Anaicut and various reservoirs distribute water to agricultural lands in Tamil Nadu, ensuring water security for farmers.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Recently, which of the following States has explored the possibility of constructing an artificial inland port to be connected to sea by a long navigational channel?

    (a) Andhra Pradesh

    (b) Chhattisgarh

    (c) Karnataka

    (d) Rajasthan

  • MoEFCC approves Reconstruction of Teesta Dam despite Safety Concerns

    Why in the News?

    The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has approved the reconstruction of the Teesta-III Dam, which was destroyed by a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in October 2023.

    About Teesta River

    • The Teesta River is a transboundary river flowing through India and Bangladesh.
    • Originates from Tso Lhamo Lake, Sikkim, at 5,330 meters in the Himalayas.
    • Major tributary of the Brahmaputra River (Jamuna in Bangladesh).
    • Vital for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and water supply in Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bangladesh.
    • The Teesta Water Dispute remains unresolved, with Bangladesh seeking an equitable share of water.

    Geographical Features:

    • Length: 414 km (309 km in India, 105 km in Bangladesh).
    • Basin Area: 12,159 sq. km in Sikkim and North Bengal.
    • Originates in North Sikkim → flows through West Bengal → enters Bangladesh before merging with the Brahmaputra River.
    • Passes through major towns like Mangan, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Rangpo.
    • Tributaries:
      • Left-bank: Rangit, Relli, Great Rangit.
      • Right-bank: Lachung, Lachen, Talung.
    • It supports Himalayan biodiversity, crucial for tea plantations and terrace farming.

    Conservation Initiatives:

    • National River Conservation Plan (NRCP): Includes efforts to reduce pollution and improve water quality of the Teesta.
    • Teesta Barrage Project (West Bengal): Aimed at irrigation development and hydroelectric power generation in North Bengal.
    • Hydroelectric Projects in Sikkim: Several Teesta Hydropower Projects (Teesta Stage III, IV, V, VI, etc.) have been established to generate renewable energy while ensuring minimum ecological impact.
    • India-Bangladesh Water Sharing Talks: Ongoing diplomatic negotiations to resolve the Teesta water-sharing dispute, ensuring equitable distribution.
    • Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) Plan: Implemented to prevent soil erosion and siltation, protecting river health.
    PYQ:

    [2017] With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements:

    1. The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim.

    2. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta.

    3. River Teesta falls into Bay of Bengal at the border of India and Bangladesh.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Why Greenland’s crystal blue lakes have turned brown?

    Why in the News?

    A new study has revealed that over 7,500 lakes in western Greenland have turned brown, suffered water quality deterioration, and started emitting carbon due to extreme weather events in 2022.

    About Greenland and Its Lakes

    • Greenland, the world’s largest island, is covered by a massive ice sheet that holds nearly 8% of the world’s freshwater.
    • The island is home to thousands of glacial-fed lakes, which are crystal blue due to their pristine water quality and low organic content.
    • These lakes play a crucial role in providing drinking water, supporting biodiversity, and storing atmospheric carbon by acting as natural carbon sinks.

    What are the reasons?

    • Extreme Weather in 2022: Greenland saw record-breaking heatwaves and heavy rainfall instead of the usual snowfall.
    • Permafrost Thawing: Rising temperatures melted permafrost, releasing large amounts of organic carbon, iron, and other minerals into the lakes.
    • Atmospheric Rivers: These long, narrow streams of water vapor in the sky caused intense precipitation, leading to large-scale runoff of organic material and sediments into the lakes.
    • Loss of Light Penetration: Increased sedimentation turned the lakes murky brown, reducing sunlight penetration and affecting phytoplankton, which play a key role in carbon absorption.

    Why this Study is important?

    • The study found that changes in the lakes occurred within months instead of centuries, signaling an unprecedented climate impact.
    • Once natural carbon absorbers, the lakes are now releasing 350% more carbon dioxide, accelerating global warming.
    • The lakes, which supply drinking water, now contain higher levels of organic pollutants, affecting both humans and aquatic ecosystems.
    • Studies suggest atmospheric rivers will become 50–290% more frequent by the end of the century, leading to widespread changes in other freshwater ecosystems worldwide.
    • The study adds to growing evidence that Earth’s natural carbon sinks are failing, posing a major challenge to climate mitigation efforts.

    PYQ:

    [2011] The surface of a lake is frozen in severe winter, but the water at its bottom is still liquid. What is the reason?

    (a) Ice is a bad conductor of heat

    (b) Since the surface of the lake is at the same temperature as the air, no heat is lost

    (c) The density of water is maximum at 4 °C

    (d) None of the statements A, B and C given above is correct.

  • The Union Budget as a turning point for climate action

    Why in the News?

    Everyone will be watching Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1 as she presents the FY26 Budget, which needs to focus on climate issues and help India reach its Net-Zero goal by 2030.

    How will the proposed climate finance taxonomy influence investment in sustainable projects?

    • Standardization and Clarity: The proposed climate finance taxonomy will standardize definitions of green finance, providing clarity and reducing ambiguity for investors. This will help in distinguishing genuinely sustainable projects from those that are not, thereby building investor confidence.
    A green finance taxonomy is a classification system that defines which activities, investments, or projects are considered “green” or environmentally sustainable.
    • Increased Investment: By standardizing green finance definitions, the taxonomy can attract a significant portion of the ₹162.5 trillion ($2.5 trillion) needed to achieve India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2030. This is crucial for scaling up investments in sustainable projects.
    • Market Readiness: The taxonomy will necessitate the development of institutional and technical infrastructure, including market readiness programs, verification systems, and capacity building of financial institutions. This will create a robust ecosystem for green investments.
    • Differential Tax Treatment: The Budget could introduce differential tax treatment for investments aligned with the taxonomy, making green investments more attractive compared to conventional ones.

    What specific measures are needed to incentivize green investments in the upcoming budget?

    • Expanding PLI Schemes for Solar Module Supply Chain: India’s domestic solar module manufacturing capacity stands at 18-20 GW, while the annual demand is 30-35 GW. Imported solar panels are 65% cheaper than domestically produced ones.
      • So, need to expand the scope of PLI schemes can enhance domestic capacity and reduce dependency on imports.
    • Public-Private Partnerships for Railway Renewable Energy: Indian Railways has 51,000 hectares of land available for renewable energy projects, yet only 142 MW of solar capacity has been installed so far, against a potential of 5 GW. Public-private partnerships can unlock this potential and align with the Railways’ decarbonization goals.
    • Establishing a Climate Action Fund for CBAM Compliance: India’s exports of CBAM-covered products to the EU amount to $8.22 billion annually. MSMEs, which contribute 30% of GDP and 45% of exports, often lack resources for decarbonization. A dedicated Climate Action Fund could support MSMEs in meeting compliance requirements and maintaining competitiveness.
    • Fiscal Allocations for the RESCO Model: Only 6.34 lakh (4.37%) of 1.45 crore registrations under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijlee Yojana have been completed. Additionally, 60% of Indian households find rooftop solar installations unaffordable due to upfront costs.
      • The RESCO model can help by enabling financing solutions to bridge this affordability gap.
    • Tax Deductions and Depreciation Benefits for Circular Economy: India generates 62 million tonnes of waste annually, with only 30% being recycled. Transitioning to a circular economy could contribute ₹40 lakh crore ($624 billion) annually by 2050.
      • Tax incentives and accelerated depreciation benefits can encourage private sector participation in recycling and resource efficiency.

    What are the steps taken by the Government of India? 

    • National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Launched in 2008, this comprehensive framework includes eight missions aimed at addressing climate change through renewable energy promotion, enhanced energy efficiency, sustainable habitat development, and more.
      • Key missions include the National Solar Mission and the Green India Mission, which focus on increasing solar energy usage and enhancing forest cover, respectively.
    • Commitment to Renewable Energy: India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030 and has pledged to reduce total projected carbon emissions by one billion tonnes.
    • Adaptation and Resilience Initiatives: The government has established the National Adaptation Fund on Climate Change (NAFCC) to support projects that enhance resilience against climate impacts.
      • On the other hand, the State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC) aligns with NAPCC objectives, focusing on sector-specific adaptations in agriculture, water management, and biodiversity.

    How can India ensure accountability and transparency in its climate financing efforts? (Way forward)

    • Sovereign Green Bond Framework: Establish a sovereign green bond framework specifically for financing circular economy infrastructure, ensuring that funds are allocated transparently and used for their intended purposes.
    • Verification Systems: Implement robust verification systems to ensure that projects funded through green finance taxonomy are genuinely sustainable and meet the required environmental standards.
    • Capacity Building: Invest in capacity building of financial institutions to effectively implement the climate finance taxonomy, including training programs and technical support.
    • Government Expenditure Classification: Commit to classifying government expenditure according to green criteria, ensuring that public funds are directed towards sustainable projects.
    • Regular Reporting and Audits: Mandate regular reporting and audits of climate-related expenditures and projects to ensure accountability and transparency. This will help in tracking progress and making necessary adjustments to policies and allocations.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q  ‘Clean energy is the order of the day.’ Describe briefly India’s changing policy towards climate change in various international fora in the context of geopolitics. (UPSC IAS/2022)

  • Indore and Udaipur earn global recognition for ‘Wetland Conservation’ Efforts

    Why in the News?

    Prime Minister recently commended Indore and Udaipur for earning a spot in the prestigious list of 31 Wetland Accredited Cities (WCA) worldwide under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

    Key Highlights of Indore and Udaipur

    • Indore:
      • Known as India’s cleanest city and recipient of Smart City 2023 Award.
      • Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar site, supports large water bird congregations and is being developed as a bird sanctuary.
      • Over 200 wetland mitras are actively involved in conservation efforts, particularly protecting the Sarus Crane.
    • Udaipur:
      • Famous for its picturesque lakes, including Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai.
      • These wetlands are vital for maintaining the city’s microclimate and providing a buffer against extreme weather events.

    About Wetland City Accreditation (WCA)

    • It was introduced during COP 12 (2015) of the Ramsar Convention to recognize cities that take exceptional steps in wetland conservation and sustainable management.
    • Objective: To promote the conservation and wise use of urban and peri-urban wetlands while fostering socio-economic benefits for local populations.
    • The accreditation is valid for 6 years.

    Criteria for WCA:

    Cities must meet specific standards set by the Ramsar Convention, including:

    • Presence of one or more Ramsar sites or significant wetlands.
    • Implementation of wetland conservation measures and restoration initiatives.
    • Integration of wetlands into land-use planning.
    • Raising public awareness about the importance of wetlands.
    • Establishing local committees with expertise in wetland management.
    • Having strong laws and policies to prevent wetland degradation.

    India’s Efforts in Wetland Conservation

    • India became a Ramsar Convention member in 1982, with 85 Ramsar sites covering 13,58,068 hectares (10% of India’s wetland area).
    • India initially designated 26 Ramsar sites (1982–2013) and added 59 more since 2014, reflecting a growing commitment to wetland preservation.
    • Tamil Nadu leads with 18 Ramsar sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh (10 sites).
    • Global Leadership Wetland Conservation:
      • UK has the highest number of Ramsar sites (175), followed by Mexico (142).
      • Bolivia has the largest area under Ramsar protection (148,000 sq. km).

    Interesting Facts about Indian Wetlands:

    • India’s wetlands cover 1,52,600 sq. km, constituting 4.63% of its geographical area (ISRO data).
    • Gujarat has the largest wetland area, followed by Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
    • Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance:
      • Examples include Chilika Lake (Odisha), Sundarbans (West Bengal), and Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan).

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] If a wetland of international importance is brought under the ‘Montreux Record’, what does it imply?

    (a) Changes in ecological character have occurred, are occurring or are likely to occur in the wetland as a result of human interference.
    (b) The country in which the wetland is located should enact a law to prohibit any human activity within five kilometres from the edge of the wetland.
    (c) The survival of the wetland depends on the cultural practices and traditions of certain communities living in its vicinity and therefore the cultural diversity therein should not be destroyed.
    (d) It is given the status of ‘World Heritage Site.’