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Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary Declared India’s 99th Ramsar Site: A Landmark for Wetland Conservation

A major milestone in India’s wetland conservation journey as Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary earns global recognition under the Ramsar Convention.

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Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary Declared India’s 99th Ramsar Site: A Landmark for Wetland Conservation

In a major boost to India’s environmental conservation efforts, Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh has officially been designated as India’s 99th Ramsar Site in April 2026. This prestigious recognition highlights the wetland’s global ecological significance and reinforces India’s growing commitment to biodiversity protection and sustainable environmental management.

Located in Uttar Pradesh, Shekha Jheel plays a vital role in supporting migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway, making it one of the most important bird habitats in northern India. With this addition, Uttar Pradesh now has a total of 12 Ramsar Sites, further strengthening its position as a key state for wetland conservation.

The sanctuary is home to several important bird species, including the Bar-headed Goose, Painted Stork, Northern Pintail, and various migratory ducks. These wetlands not only provide a safe habitat for birds but also contribute significantly to groundwater recharge, flood control, climate balance, and maintaining ecological sustainability.

Ramsar Sites are wetlands recognized under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty focused on the conservation and wise use of wetlands. Such recognition ensures greater protection, better management practices, and global attention toward preserving these critical ecosystems.

The declaration of Shekha Jheel as the 99th Ramsar Site brings India one step closer to achieving a historic milestone of 100 internationally protected wetlands. This achievement reflects the nation’s strong focus on climate security, environmental protection, and sustainable development.

Wetlands are often called the lifelines of our ecosystem, and this latest recognition proves that India is moving steadily toward a greener and more resilient future.

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