Wetlands are vital ecosystems that play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, supporting wildlife, and providing essential services such as water filtration and flood control. Despite their importance, the current data on wetland notification in India reveals significant gaps in formal recognition and protection.
Out of over 200,000 wetlands in India, only 102 have been officially notified. These notifications are primarily concentrated in Rajasthan (75), Goa (25), and Chandigarh (2). This highlights a concerning trend where most states, despite possessing large wetland areas, have failed to complete the notification process.
The official notification of wetlands is crucial as it grants them legal protection under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017. This legislation prohibits harmful activities such as encroachment, waste dumping, reclamation, and construction, thereby aiding in the conservation of their ecological and hydrological functions.
A Ramsar site is a wetland designated as being of international importance under the Ramsar Convention, which aims to conserve and ensure the sustainable use of wetlands. India boasts 80 Ramsar sites; however, it is essential to note that Ramsar designation does not automatically confer legal protection unless the site is also notified under national law.
Recognition as a Ramsar site indicates that the wetland holds global ecological significance, often supporting rare or endangered species and unique ecosystems. While governments are encouraged to maintain its ecological character and develop a management plan, real protection depends on national and state-level actions, including notification and enforcement.
There exists a notable gap between Ramsar recognition and legal protection in India. Many Ramsar sites remain unnotified under Indian regulations, leaving them vulnerable to threats such as pollution, encroachment, and unregulated tourism. For instance, Deepor Beel in Assam and Pallikaranai Marsh in Tamil Nadu face significant challenges despite their Ramsar status.
In India, the primary responsibility for wetland conservation resides with state governments, as "land" and "water" fall under the State List of the Constitution. While the central government provides policy guidance and funding, it cannot enforce notification unless states take action.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) plays a pivotal role in wetland conservation by framing national rules, supporting Ramsar site designations, and coordinating with international bodies. It also facilitates mapping and inventory through agencies like the Space Applications Centre (ISRO).
Several factors contribute to the slow pace of wetland notification by states, including delays in forming State Wetland Authorities, lack of trained personnel, political inertia, and poor interdepartmental coordination. Some states perceive wetland conservation as an obstacle to infrastructure and real estate development.
The Wetlands Rules, 2017 decentralised authority to states but omitted crucial provisions from the earlier 2010 version, such as the Central Wetlands Authority and a clear list of prohibited activities. This has created inconsistencies in implementation and weakened accountability.
To enhance wetland conservation in India, states must expedite the notification process, particularly for Ramsar sites. Integrated management plans should be developed, and wetlands must be incorporated into land-use planning. Restoration efforts and pollution control should be reinforced through stringent enforcement. Additionally, the central government can reintroduce oversight mechanisms and provide incentives for compliance.
“We won’t have a society if we destroy the environment. Wetlands are not wastelands—they are life-support systems.” – Margaret Mead
Q1. What does the current data show about wetland notification in India?
Answer: Out of over 200,000 wetlands in India, only 102 have been officially notified. These are mainly in Rajasthan, Goa, and Chandigarh, with many states yet to complete the notification process.
Q2. Why is official notification of wetlands significant?
Answer: Notified wetlands receive legal protection under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, prohibiting harmful activities like encroachment and waste dumping.
Q3. What is a Ramsar site and how is it different from a notified wetland?
Answer: A Ramsar site is recognized internationally for its ecological importance, but it requires domestic notification for legal protection, which many sites lack in India.
Q4. Why have states been slow to notify wetlands?
Answer: Delays are due to slow formation of State Wetland Authorities, lack of trained staff, and some states viewing conservation as a hindrance to development.
Q5. What steps are needed to improve wetland conservation in India?
Answer: States must accelerate notification, develop integrated management plans, and enforce pollution control measures. The Centre can also enhance oversight and provide incentives.
Question 1: How many notified wetlands are there in India?
A) 102
B) 200
C) 80
D) 150
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: What is the purpose of the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017?
A) To promote tourism
B) To protect wetlands
C) To increase land use
D) To allow construction
Correct Answer: B
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