Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary Becomes India’s 99th Ramsar Site in Aligarh

The Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, has received official designation as the 99th Ramsar site in India, which is a significant step towards protecting wetlands in India. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced it, saying the sanctuary had ecological significance. Such a recognition is not only a reinforcement of global environmental commitments but also increases conservation of biodiversity and water security, and the livelihoods of the locals. This addition brings the total Ramsar sites in Uttar Pradesh to 12, and India is one step closer to a historic 100 Ramsar sites worldwide.

Importance of - Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary: India’s 99th Ramsar Site

• Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary is a wetland in the Aligarh district, Uttar Pradesh, and it is currently listed under the Ramsar Convention as an internationally significant wetland.

• The declaration adds up to 99 sites in India, which demonstrates the high enthusiasm of India towards preserving wetlands.

• The state of Uttar Pradesh has been one of the biggest contributors to the wetland network in India, with it being the 12th Ramsar site.

• Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced it, highlighting such benefits as biodiversity protection and climate security.

• Shekha Jheel is an important area where migrating birds can be found on the Central Asian flyway, such as the bar-headed goose and the painted stork.

• The wetland is a habitat for a rich ecosystem and is a source of ecological balance and preservation, as well as supporting many species of birds.

• The Ramsar recognition aids in managing wetlands in a sustainable manner and securing wetlands against environmental risks such as pollution and habitat destruction.

• It will enhance eco-tourism in the area, which will offer new possibilities to locals and economic development.

• Wetlands such as Shekha Jheel play a crucial role in sustaining groundwater, flood management, and climatic stability.

• It is a milestone that India is moving towards 100 Ramsar sites, strengthening its leadership in global environmental conservation efforts.

List of Latest Ramsar Sites in India (2025-2026)

Purpose and About Ramsar 

• The Ramsar Convention on wetlands is a treaty that is international in nature and is commendable in protecting the sustainability of wetlands across the world.

• On 2 February 1971, it was adopted in Ramsar and came into force in 1975.

• This is primarily intended to safeguard wetlands because of their contribution to the conservation of biodiversity, water security, and climatic conditions.

• Ramsar wetlands are declared wetlands of International Importance.

• The convention enhances prudent utilization of wetlands, resulting in ecological equilibrium and sustainable growth.

• India was a signatory in 1982 and further enhanced its commitment towards wetlands conservation.

• The earliest Ramsar sites in India were the Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) and Chilika Lake (Odisha) in 1981.

• Ramsar recognition assists in international collaboration and funding as well as conservation planning.

• Wetlands promote migratory birds, fisheries, flood control, and groundwater recharge.

• The convention is celebrated globally on World Wetlands Day, which is celebrated annually.

Conclusion - Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary

The 99th Ramsar site in India, Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary, reinforces the actions taken by India towards the protection of wetlands. This awareness will enhance the protection of biodiversity, assist migratory birds, and also improve ecotourism in the area. It is also an indicator of the Indian sustainability towards environmental management and global conservation, long-term ecological stability, and societal gain.