World Wetlands Day 2025

World Wetlands Day is celebrated on February 2 each year. It raises awareness about the importance of wetlands. Recently, the theme was Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future. This year, India designated four new Ramsar sites. These are Udhwa Lake in Jharkhand, Theerthangal and Sakkarakottai in Tamil Nadu, and Khecheopalri in Sikkim.

What Are Wetlands?

• Wetlands are areas covered by water, either permanently or seasonally.
• Examples include marshes and lakes. They are essential for biodiversity.
• Wetlands provide habitats for migratory birds, aquatic species, and various plants.
• They also play a role in groundwater recharge and flood control.

Importance of Wetlands

Wetlands are crucial for ecosystem health. They serve as carbon sinks, absorbing more carbon than they emit. This function helps mitigate climate change. They also support fisheries and local communities. Wetlands are vital for maintaining water quality and regulating water cycles.

Ramsar Convention

• The Ramsar Convention was established in 1971.
• It is an international treaty focused on wetland conservation. The convention defines wetlands broadly, including natural and artificial areas.
• Sites designated under Ramsar receive international support for management and conservation.

Wetlands in India

• India has 89 Ramsar sites.
• Tamil Nadu has the highest number, with 20 sites.
• The criteria for designation include supporting critical life stages of species and providing refuge.
• Harike Wetlands in Punjab is one of the largest and hosts various migratory birds.

Decline in Bird Populations

• Recent studies indicate a decline in migratory bird populations in Punjab.
• The 2023-24 census showed a 13.7% drop in bird counts across six protected wetlands.
• Kanjli Wetland experienced the most decline, with numbers falling nearly 49.49%.

Threats to Wetlands

Wetlands face several threats primarily from human activities. Industrial waste discharge contaminates water bodies. Illegal sand mining disrupts water retention. Agricultural practices, including pesticide use, negatively impact wildlife. Climate change further exacerbates these issues.

Conservation Measures

To protect wetlands, various measures can be implemented. Afforestation with native tree species is crucial. Soil conservation practices can enhance wetland health. Additionally, public awareness campaigns can educate communities about the importance of wetlands. Strict enforcement against illegal activities is necessary.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the significance of wetlands in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity.
2. Critically examine the impact of industrial waste on wetland ecosystems in India.
3. Explain the role of the Ramsar Convention in global wetland conservation efforts.
4. What are the major threats to biodiversity in wetlands? With suitable examples, discuss the measures needed for their protection.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the significance of wetlands in maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity.

1. Wetlands are critical for biodiversity, providing habitats for various species, including migratory birds and aquatic life.
2. They act as natural water filters, improving water quality and regulating water cycles.
3. Wetlands help in groundwater recharge, flood control, and maintaining hydrological balance in ecosystems.
4. As carbon sinks, they mitigate climate change by absorbing more carbon than they emit.
5. They support local communities through fisheries and recreational activities, contributing to economic stability.

2. Critically examine the impact of industrial waste on wetland ecosystems in India.

1. Industrial waste discharge contaminates water bodies, leading to habitat degradation and loss of biodiversity.
2. Pollutants from factories can disrupt the reproductive cycles of aquatic species and birds.
3. Specific examples include the polluted Budha Nallah affecting the Sutlej river and subsequently the Harike Wetlands.
4. Contaminated water can lead to bioaccumulation of toxins in the food chain, affecting both wildlife and human health.
5. Regulatory measures and stricter enforcement are necessary to mitigate these impacts and protect wetland ecosystems.

3. Explain the role of the Ramsar Convention in global wetland conservation efforts.

1. The Ramsar Convention, established in 1971, is an international treaty focused on the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
2. It sets criteria for designating Ramsar sites, ensuring they support critical life stages of species and provide habitats.
3. Member countries receive guidance and support for wetland management and conservation efforts under the convention.
4. The convention promotes international cooperation and awareness about the ecological importance of wetlands.
5. It plays important role in mobilizing resources and funding for wetland conservation projects worldwide.

4. What are the major threats to biodiversity in wetlands? With suitable examples, discuss the measures needed for their protection.

1. Major threats include industrial pollution, illegal sand mining, and agricultural runoff with pesticides and fertilizers.
2. For example, industrial waste from factories near Punjab’s wetlands contaminates water and disrupts ecosystems.
3. Climate change poses additional risks, such as altered water levels and increased temperatures affecting species survival.
4. Conservation measures include afforestation with native species, soil conservation, and public awareness campaigns.
5. Strict enforcement against illegal activities and community engagement are essential for effective wetland protection.