In News:

Recently, the Union Ministry of Environment announced that Kichan (Phalodi) and Menar (Udaipur) wetlands in Rajasthan have been recognized as Ramsar Sites, bringing India’s total to 91 Ramsar-designated wetlands—the highest in Asia.

About Menar Wetland:

• A freshwater monsoon wetland complex in Udaipur district, Rajasthan.
• Formed by three primary ponds: Braham Talab, Dhand Talab, and Kheroda Talab; the latter two are connected by flooded agricultural land during the monsoon.
• Habitat for endangered and migratory birds such as:
  • Critically Endangered: White-rumped vulture (Gyps bengalensis), Long-billed vulture (Gyps indicus)
  • Other species: Himalayan griffon, Egyptian vulture, Dalmatian pelican, Ferruginous pochard, Black-tailed godwit
• Home to over 70 plant species, including mango trees (Mangifera indica) that host colonies of Indian flying foxes (Pteropus giganteus).
• Community-led conservation: Menar village residents prevent poaching and fishing, earning it the title "Bird Village".

About Kichan Wetland:

• Located in Phalodi, Jodhpur, in the northern Thar Desert of Rajasthan.
• Comprises:
  • Ratri Nadi (river)
  • Vijaysagar Talab (pond)
  • Riparian and scrub habitats
• Notable for supporting drought-resistant flora and over 150 bird species.
• Globally known for hosting over 22,000 migratory demoiselle cranes (Anthropoides virgo) each winter.
• A hub for birdwatchers, tourists, scientists, and students.

Ramsar Convention Overview:

• An intergovernmental treaty for the conservation of wetlands, signed in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran.
• Headquartered in Gland, Switzerland.
• Wetlands listed under the convention are known as Ramsar Sites—of international importance.
• Member countries (Contracting Parties) commit to identifying and protecting these wetlands.