An insight into Ramsar convention and Ramsar sites in India
Varun VM
There are 2210 wetlands of international importance (Ramsar sites) all over the world and 26 of them are located in India, which constitutes 1.17 percent of total Ramsar across the globe. Other than Ramsar sites it is estimated that India has wealth of 27, 403 wetlands covering an area of 4.1 million hectares. The wetlands which provide social, economic, ecological benefits are under stress due to anthropogenic activities, pollution, urbanization, illegal mining, unplanned tourism etc. This paper discusses about the condition of major Ramsar sites in India. It examines the existing legal framework and its adequacy for the protection, conservation and management of wetlands.