Etah’s Patna Bird Sanctuary, the 11th wetland in Uttar Pradesh, has been added to the world map after being designated a Ramsar site.
This has not only strengthened the state’s biodiversity but also bolstered environmental conservation efforts across the entire country. So far, 178 bird species and 252 plant species have been recorded in the sanctuary.
Along with Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah, Chhari-Dhand in Kutch, Gujarat, has also been declared a Ramsar site.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav extended their congratulations on this achievement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed happiness over the recognition of Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch, Gujarat, as Ramsar sites.
He said, “These recognitions reflect our commitment to conserving biodiversity and protecting important ecosystems.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on the social media platform ‘X’, “Happy that Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah (Uttar Pradesh) and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch (Gujarat) have become Ramsar sites.”
Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav wrote on his social media platform, “Congratulations Team Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat, and the Wetland community! With World Wetlands Day close by, I am delighted to announce that there are two new additions to India’s Ramsar growing network.”
“Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhari-Dhand in Kutch, Gujarat, are the new entrants to the coveted Ramsar sites list. This international recognition reflects India’s strong commitment to protecting the environment and conserving our rich wetlands. Hundreds of migratory and resident avian species find their home in the two wetlands, in addition to chinkara, wolves, caracal, desert cats, and desert foxes, and endangered birds,” he added.
Yadav said, “Under the visionary leadership of PM Shri @narendramodi ji, Indian Ramsar network has seen an expansion of over 276% — climbing from 26 in 2014 to 98 now.”