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Introduction

The National Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP) initiated by the Government of India aims to conserve and manage the country’s wetlands, vital ecosystems that provide numerous ecological services. This program has been pivotal in protecting wetlands, some of which are also recognized as Ramsar Sites of international importance.

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Key Features of the National Wetland Conservation Programme:

• Identification and Classification: The program undertakes a systematic survey of wetlands across India. For instance, Chilika Lake in Odisha was identified as a Ramsar site owing to its ecological importance.
• Financial Assistance: The Central and state governments jointly fund conservation activities. Projects like the rejuvenation of Wular Lake in Jammu and Kashmir have been made possible due to financial assistance from both levels of government.
• Capacity Building: Training and workshops are often conducted to skill the stakeholders. For example, fishermen around Pulicat Lake have been trained in sustainable fishing techniques.
• Research and Development: Research grants are given for studies on wetland ecology. Research on the unique flora and fauna of Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan has significantly contributed to avian science.
• Awareness Programs: Public awareness campaigns like “Wetlands for All” have been critical. World Wetlands Day is celebrated with educational activities at Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Measures are taken to conserve the diverse life forms inhabiting the wetlands. The Asan Conservation Reserve in Uttarakhand is a prime example, where efforts to conserve local bird species have been successful.
• Monitoring and Assessment: Technology like satellite imagery is used for monitoring wetlands. For example, the health of Vembanad Kol Wetland in Kerala is periodically assessed using remote sensing data.
• Policy Framework: The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules were formulated to govern the use and conservation of wetlands. For example, these rules have been employed to regulate activities around the Bhitarkanika Mangroves in Odisha.

India’s Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Sites):

• Sundarbans: This is the world’s largest mangrove forest, spanning the delta region of the Padma, Meghna, and Brahmaputra River basins in West Bengal. Rich in biodiversity, Sundarbans is home to the famous Royal Bengal Tigers and is crucial for maintaining the region’s ecological balance.
• Chilika Lake: Located in Odisha, it is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. The lake serves as a temporary home to numerous migratory birds and supports local fishing communities. Its rich biodiversity makes it an area of international importance.
• Keoladeo National Park: Situated in Rajasthan, it is a world-renowned bird sanctuary. It sees thousands of migratory birds during the winter season, including the Siberian crane. The park is an essential spot for avian research and supports a vast range of flora and fauna.
• Loktak Lake: Situated in Manipur and it is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India. Famous for its phumdis (floating islands), it hosts the Keibul Lamjao, the world’s only floating national park. The lake is vital for regional hydroelectricity generation, water supply, and biodiversity.

Conclusion

The National Wetland Conservation Programme serves as a cornerstone in India’s efforts to conserve these vital ecosystems. Despite the challenges faced, implementing these strategies which involves legislative changes, community participation, and technological innovations will ensure that India’s wetlands remain an integral part of its rich ecological heritage.

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