Ramsar Convention
Wetlands of International Importance
The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (formally, the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat) is an intergovernmental treaty adopted in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971. It provides a framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands.
- India is a signatory to the Ramsar Convention. As of 2025, India has 85 Ramsar sites — the highest number among Asian countries.
- A site designated as a Ramsar wetland must be managed under a "wise use" principle — maintaining ecological character while allowing sustainable human use.
- Ramsar designation does not override national law but creates international obligations to prevent loss of ecological character.
- Key Ramsar sites in India include Chilika Lake (Odisha), Keoladeo Ghana NP (Rajasthan), Loktak Lake (Manipur), and Kolleru Lake (Andhra Pradesh).
- The Montreux Record is a register of Ramsar sites where ecological character has changed, is changing, or is likely to change. Kolleru was on the Montreux Record from 2002 to 2012 due to encroachment.
● Tracked since February 18, 2026 · last seen May 26, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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