Shri Bhupender Yadav announces Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary as India's 99th Ramsar site; Uttar Pradesh's tally rises to 12
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📌 Summary:
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Union Minister Bhupender Yadav designated Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, as India's 99th Ramsar site on April 22, 2026
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India's total Ramsar-designated wetlands now stand at 99; Uttar Pradesh's tally rises to 12 — the highest for any single Indian state
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Shekha Jheel lies on the Central Asian Flyway, a key migratory bird corridor providing vital winter habitat for Bar-headed Goose, Painted Stork, and various duck species
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The designation is expected to boost local livelihoods, global biodiversity, water security, and climate resilience in the region
🎯 UPSC Relevance: GS3 — Environment & Biodiversity; Conservation. Ramsar sites are frequently tested in Prelims under the Ramsar Convention, wetland conservation, and India's biodiversity commitments.
📝 Prelims Facts:
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India's total Ramsar sites: 99 (as of April 22, 2026)
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Uttar Pradesh now has 12 Ramsar sites — highest for any single Indian state
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Shekha Jheel is located on the Central Asian Flyway (a major migratory bird route)
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Migratory birds hosted: Bar-headed Goose, Painted Stork, various ducks
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Ramsar Convention was signed in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran
🔑 Key Term: Ramsar Convention — An international treaty (1971) for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands of international importance, especially as waterfowl habitat.
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