Shekha Jheel (Aligarh) becomes India’s 99th Ramsar site; UP tally 12

Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary as a Ramsar site: what happened?

A Ramsar tag is the world’s stamp that a wetland matters. It helps protect waterbirds and the livelihoods that depend on healthy wetlands. UP now has a dozen such sites; India is one short of a century.

• Announced as bringing India closer to 100 Ramsar sites.
• Framed as support for local livelihoods, biodiversity, water and climate security.

What is a Ramsar site?

• A wetland listed under the Ramsar Convention (1971, Iran) as being of international importance, especially for waterbirds.

Which constitutional duties touch wetland protection?

• Article 48A: the State shall try to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard forests and wildlife.
• Article 51A(g): every citizen should protect and improve the natural environment, including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife.

Why does Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary as a Ramsar site matter?

What are the challenges in Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary as a Ramsar site?

• Designation is a start; local protection and livelihoods need follow-through.
• India is still one short of 100 Ramsar sites.

What should be done next on Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary as a Ramsar site?

• Move towards the 100th site.
• Keep winter habitat quality for migratory birds.

What can Prelims ask on Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary as a Ramsar site?

• Shekha Jheel, Aligarh: India’s 99th Ramsar site (Apr 2026); UP’s 12th.
• Central Asian Flyway stopover.
• Ramsar Convention, 1971.

How to write about Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary as a Ramsar site in Mains

Practice question (10 marks, 150 words): Why do Ramsar designations matter for India’s wetland and migratory-bird conservation? Illustrate with a recent example.

• Intro: Ramsar idea.
• Shekha Jheel facts.
• Flyway and livelihoods.
• Constitutional hooks.
• Conclusion: towards 100.

What should UPPCS aspirants note?

• Shekha Jheel is in Aligarh district; UP now has 12 Ramsar sites.