Q.What is wetland? Explain the Ramsar concept of ‘wise use’ in the context of wetland conservation. Cite two examples of Ramsar sites from India.

Body Analysis

Wetlands are transitional areas where water covers the soil, or is present near the surface, either permanently or seasonally. They include marshes, swamps, bogs, and shallow water bodies. In India, wetlands span approximately 4.6% of the total geographical area (~15.26 million hectares). They are highly productive ecosystems that provide critical services like water purification, flood mitigation, climate regulation, and livelihood support.

graph TD
    RW["Role of Wetlands"] --> BH["Biodiversity Hotspots"]
    RW --> NWP["Natural Water Purifiers"]
    RW --> FCWS["Flood Control and Water Storage"]
    RW --> CS["Carbon Sequestration"]
    RW --> LS["Livelihood Support"]
    RW --> CR["Climate Regulation"]

Body

The Ramsar Concept of 'Wise Use'

Adopted under the Ramsar Convention (1971), "wise use" is defined as:

"The maintenance of their ecological character, achieved through the implementation of ecosystem approaches, within the context of sustainable development."

This principle emphasizes that conservation does not mean locking up resources; rather, it advocates for the sustainable utilization of wetlands to benefit human communities while preserving their natural ecological functions.

Importance of the 'Wise Use' Concept

• Balancing Conservation and Human Needs: It allows local communities to engage in sustainable agriculture, fishing, and eco-tourism without degrading the wetland.
• Biodiversity Protection: It ensures that critical habitats for rare and migratory species remain intact.
• Resource Management: It promotes the sustainable extraction of water, fish, and plants, ensuring long-term availability.
• Climate Mitigation: Wetlands act as vital carbon sinks; 'wise use' preserves their capacity to sequester carbon.
• Disaster Risk Reduction: It protects wetlands so they can continue acting as natural buffers against floods and storm surges.

Examples of Ramsar Sites in India

1. Chilika Lake (Odisha): India's largest coastal lagoon and a critical wintering ground for migratory birds. Designated as a Ramsar site in 1981, it is managed under 'wise use' guidelines by promoting sustainable community fishing while protecting endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
2. Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan): A man-made wetland famous for its avian diversity, including the Siberian crane. Designated in 1981, its management balances controlled tourism and active water-level regulation to maintain bird habitats.