Why in news?
On 29 September 2025 the Ramsar Convention added two wetlands from Bihar—Gokul Jalashay and Udaipur Jheel—to its list of Wetlands of International Importance. This recognition increases India’s total Ramsar sites and draws attention to the ecological value of oxbow lakes in the Gangetic plains.
Gokul Jalashay, Buxar district
- Nature: A 448‑hectare oxbow lake formed by a former channel of the Ganga River on its southern edge. It acts as a natural flood cushion during monsoon seasons.
- Biodiversity: More than 50 bird species, including cormorants, egrets and kingfishers, inhabit the wetland. It also supports fish, turtles and aquatic plants.
- Local dependence: Communities use the lake for fishing, irrigation and livestock watering. Ramsar designation will encourage sustainable fishing practices and eco‑tourism.
Udaipur Jheel, West Champaran district
- Nature: A 319‑hectare wetland fed by monsoon rains and groundwater. It provides a stopover for migratory waterbirds.
- Biodiversity: Home to around 280 plant species and about 35 migratory bird species, including the vulnerable Common Pochard. The surrounding grasslands support reptiles and amphibians.
- Significance: Wetland conservation will safeguard biodiversity, recharge groundwater and support community livelihoods. Bihar now has five Ramsar sites, highlighting the state’s wetland heritage.