Nagi and Nakti Wetlands: New Ramsar Sites in Bihar

Recently, the Nagi and Nakti Bird Sanctuaries of Bihar, have been recognised as wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.

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Key Highlights 

Location: Jamui District of Bihar 

• These man-made wetlands are located in the Jhajha forest range.
• These were designated as bird sanctuaries in 1984 for their importance as wintering habitats for several migratory species. 

 

About Nakti Bird Sanctuary

• It was primarily developed for irrigation through the construction of the Nakti Dam.
• It is an important habitat for migratory birds, over 20,000 birds assemble here during the winter seasons, including one of the largest communities of red-crested pochard (Netta rufina) on the Indo-Gangetic plain.
• Species: Threatened species such as the endangered Indian elephant and a vulnerable native catfish (Wallago Attu). 

 

About Nagi Bird Sanctuary

• Habitat and Species: The wetlands and their fringes provide habitat for over 75 bird species, 33 fish, and 12 aquatic plants, and support globally threatened species, including the endangered Indian elephant (Elephas Maximus Indicus) and a vulnerable native catfish (Wallago Attu).
• The Nagi Bird Sanctuary hosts one of the largest congregations of bar-headed geese (Anser Indicus) on the Indo-Gangetic plain.

 

Important Points to Remember

• Total Number of Ramsar Sites in India: 82
• 2nd February every year is celebrated as World Wetlands Day. 
• The first Ramsar Site of India: Chilika Lake (Odisha).