Workshop on Wetland Conservation in Ayodhya
On February 2, a significant event will take place to celebrate World Wetlands Day. In preparation for this occasion, Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, led a Regional Workshop on the Conservation and Wise Use of Wetlands in Ayodhya. This workshop is part of the Sahbhagita Mission, which aims to enhance wetland conservation efforts across North India. The event brought together key figures, including the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden of Uttar Pradesh, Ms. Anuradha Vemuri, and various representatives from nine states and union territories. The workshop focused on the importance of wetlands and the need for sustainable practices to protect these vital ecosystems.
Importance of Wetlands in India
Wetlands play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. They provide habitat for diverse flora and fauna, support water quality, and help in flood control. India is home to 89 wetlands of international importance, known as Ramsar Sites, with four new sites added recently. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the government has made significant strides in wetland conservation. The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has initiated various programs to raise awareness about wetland conservation. This year, the focus is on the Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary in Gonda district, Uttar Pradesh. This sanctuary is not only a Ramsar site but also one of the largest wetlands in the region, providing a habitat for over 100,000 birds.
The workshop highlighted the need for collective action in conserving these ecosystems. Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh emphasized that the government organizes national and state-level programs annually to promote awareness about wetland conservation. These initiatives aim to educate the public about the ecological significance of wetlands and encourage community involvement in conservation efforts.
Mission Sahbhagita and Its Goals
Launched in 2022, the ‘Mission Sahbhagita’ aims to integrate wetland conservation into development planning. The mission focuses on sustainable development while ensuring that local communities are actively involved in conservation efforts. Uttar Pradesh, with its vast number of wetlands covering 5.16% of the state’s geographical area, plays a vital role in this mission. The state boasts ten Ramsar Sites, making it second only to Tamil Nadu in terms of Ramsar Site numbers.
During the workshop, the Minister shared insights into the ongoing conservation efforts in Uttar Pradesh. The state has implemented the National Aquatic Ecosystem Conservation Plan, which focuses on the protection of 13 wetlands. The State Wetland Management Committee has also been proactive in identifying and safeguarding important wetlands at the district level. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that wetlands are preserved for future generations while balancing development needs.
Upcoming Events and Community Involvement
The workshop served as a precursor to the national-level program scheduled for February 2 at the Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary. Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath will be the chief guest at this event, where the Uttar Pradesh government will present the Integrated Management Plan for the Parvati Arga Wetland to the MoEFCC. This plan outlines strategies for sustainable management and conservation of the wetland.
In the lead-up to World Wetlands Day, a nationwide awareness campaign has engaged over 2,000 students from schools and colleges. Activities included painting competitions, street plays, and quizzes, all aimed at educating the youth about wetland conservation. The workshop also featured discussions among Ramsar Site Managers from various states, sharing their experiences and strategies for effective wetland management. Additionally, the Minister released a booklet and launched a poster titled ‘Seven Steps for Wetland and Pond Conservation,’ further emphasizing the importance of community involvement in these efforts.
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