India has achieved another significant milestone in wetland conservation with the inclusion of Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh) as its 99th Ramsar Site in April 2026. This recognition highlights India’s growing commitment to preserving ecologically important wetlands and strengthening biodiversity conservation under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
About Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary
Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary is a freshwater wetland in Aligarh district of Uttar Pradesh, recently recognized as India’s 99th Ramsar Site in 2026.
- Location: Situated around 15-17 km from Aligarh city in Uttar Pradesh
- Wetland Type: Freshwater perennial jheel connected to the Upper Ganga Canal system
- Ramsar Status: Declared as India’s 99th Ramsar Site in April 2026
- Biodiversity: Supports over 200+ bird species, including many migratory birds
- Flyway Importance: Lies on the Central Asian Flyway, a major migratory route
- Key Bird Species: Bar-headed goose, painted stork, northern pintail, and other waterfowl
- Other Fauna: Nilgai, blackbuck, reptiles, and small mammals found in surrounding areas
- Ecological Role: Helps in groundwater recharge, flood control, and maintaining ecological balance
Ramsar Sites Added in 2025
The year 2025 marked a major boost to India’s wetland conservation efforts with the addition of 11 new Ramsar Sites across multiple states. These wetlands are ecologically significant as they support biodiversity, migratory birds, and sustainable livelihoods.
| Ramsar Sites Added in 2025 | ||||
|
S.No |
Ramsar Site |
State/UT |
Year |
Significance |
|
1 |
Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary |
Tamil Nadu |
2025 |
Important habitat for migratory waterbirds; supports breeding and nesting of several avian species |
|
2 |
Therthangal Bird Sanctuary |
Tamil Nadu |
2025 |
Key stopover on Central Asian Flyway; rich in aquatic bird diversity |
|
3 |
Khecheopalri Wetland |
Sikkim |
2025 |
Sacred wetland with high cultural value; supports rare flora and fauna |
|
4 |
Udhwa Lake |
Jharkhand |
2025 |
Only bird sanctuary in the state; crucial wintering ground for migratory birds |
|
5 |
Khichan (Phalodi) |
Rajasthan |
2025 |
Famous for Demoiselle cranes; strong example of community-led conservation |
|
6 |
Menar (Udaipur) |
Rajasthan |
2025 |
Known as “Bird Village”; supports large populations of migratory birds like flamingos |
|
7 |
Gokul Jalashay |
Bihar |
2025 |
Provides habitat for diverse aquatic species and supports local irrigation |
|
8 |
Udaipur Jheel |
Bihar |
2025 |
Rich wetland biodiversity; important for fishery and bird conservation |
|
9 |
Bihar |
2025 |
One of Bihar’s largest oxbow lakes; hotspot for migratory birds |
|
|
10 |
Rajasthan |
2025 |
Supports birdlife and acts as a freshwater reservoir aiding water conservation |
|
|
11 |
Kopra Jalashay |
Chhattisgarh |
2025 |
Important inland wetland supporting aquatic biodiversity and local livelihoods |
Ramsar Sites Added in 2026
In 2026, India further strengthened its wetland conservation network by adding 3 new Ramsar Sites, taking the total to 99. These sites represent diverse ecosystems ranging from freshwater bird habitats to unique desert wetlands.
| Ramsar Sites Added in 2026 | ||||
|
S.No |
Ramsar Site |
State/UT |
Year |
Significance |
|
1 |
Patna Bird Sanctuary |
Uttar Pradesh |
2026 |
Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA); supports migratory birds and wetland ecosystem services |
|
2 |
Chhari-Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve |
Kutch, Gujarat |
2026 |
Unique desert wetland ecosystem; crucial habitat for migratory birds, including flamingos and cranes |
|
3 |
Uttar Pradesh |
2026 |
Freshwater wetland on Central Asian Flyway; supports rich avifauna, groundwater recharge, and eco-tourism |
|
Last updated on April, 2026
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Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary FAQs
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