Khichan and Menar Wetlands Get Ramsar Tag

Current Context : Recently, Khichan (Phalodi) and Menar (Udaipur), Rajasthan, were declared Ramsar Sites, taking India’s total to 91—the highest in Asia.

ABOUT

Khichan Wetland (Phalodi, Rajasthan)

• Famous for hosting thousands of Demoiselle Cranes each winter, making it a crucial stopover on the Central Asian Flyway.
  • Birdwatching hub—boosts local eco-tourism.
• Local Management: Community-led habitat maintenance and seasonal water management ensure continued suitability for migratory birds.

Menar Wetland (Udaipur, Rajasthan)

• Known as “Bird Village”, supporting 150+ bird species (flamingos, pelicans, storks).
• Comprises Brahma Talab and Dhand Talab—seasonal lakes fed by monsoon rains.

What Are Ramsar Sites?

• Designated under the Ramsar Convention (1971, Ramsar, Iran) as “wetlands of international importance.”
• Objective: Promote conservation and wise use through national actions and international cooperation.
• India & the Ramsar Convention : Joined in 1982; now boasts 91 Ramsar Sites (highest in Asia).