Wetlands – An overview

Wetlands are vital ecosystems that play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, regulating water cycles, and providing numerous ecological and socio-economic benefits. Below is an overview of wetlands, their significance, legal frameworks governing them, their distribution in India, and the importance of their conservation.

Introduction to Wetlands

Wetlands are areas where water covers the land, either permanently or seasonally, leading to unique ecosystems. They include marshes, swamps, bogs, and fens, and are characterized by the presence of water-loving vegetation and hydric soils. Wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems, supporting a vast array of plant and animal life.

Definition of Wetlands

The Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands, defines wetlands as:

'Areas of marsh, fen, peatland, or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish, or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six meters.'

In India, the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, provide a regulatory framework for the conservation and management of wetlands. These rules define wetlands and outline their protection measures.

Legal Framework for Wetland Conservation in India

India has established several legal and policy measures to protect and manage wetlands:

• Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017: These rules regulate activities in wetlands to prevent degradation and ensure their sustainable use. They empower State Wetland Authorities to oversee wetland management.
• Ramsar Convention: India became a party to the Ramsar Convention in 1982 and has designated numerous wetlands as Wetlands of International Importance.
• National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA): Launched by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), this plan aims to conserve and manage wetlands and other aquatic ecosystems across the country.

Wetlands in India: Locations and Distribution

India is home to a diverse range of wetlands, varying in size, type, and ecological significance. As of February 2022, India has designated 49 Ramsar sites, covering an area of approximately 1,093,636 hectares. These sites are spread across various states and union territories, highlighting the country's rich wetland diversity.

Notable Ramsar Sites in India:

• Sundarbans Reserve Forest (West Bengal): The largest mangrove forest in the world, known for its unique ecosystem and as a habitat for the Bengal tiger.
• Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan): A man-made wetland that supports a vast array of bird species, including migratory birds.
• Chilika Lake (Odisha): Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, renowned for its rich biodiversity and as a habitat for migratory birds.

Importance of Wetlands in Ecosystems and Biodiversity

Wetlands offer numerous ecological and socio-economic benefits:

• Biodiversity Hotspots: They support a wide range of species, including many that are endemic or endangered. Wetlands are crucial breeding and feeding grounds for various aquatic and terrestrial species.
• Water Purification: Wetlands act as natural filters, removing pollutants and improving water quality.
• Flood Protection: They absorb excess rainfall and reduce the severity of floods, acting as natural sponges.
• Carbon Sequestration: Wetlands store carbon within their plant communities and soil, helping to mitigate climate change.
• Economic Resources: They support livelihoods through activities like fishing, agriculture, and tourism.

Reasons to Conserve and Protect Wetlands

Conserving wetlands is essential for maintaining ecological balance and supporting human livelihoods:

• Preservation of Biodiversity: Protecting wetlands ensures the survival of numerous species that depend on these habitats.
• Sustainable Water Management: Wetlands play a key role in regulating the hydrological cycle, ensuring a steady supply of clean water.
• Climate Change Mitigation: By acting as carbon sinks, wetlands help in reducing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.
• Economic Benefits: Healthy wetlands contribute to the economy through fisheries, agriculture, and tourism.

Government Initiatives and Policies for Wetland Conservation

The Government of India has implemented several initiatives to promote wetland conservation:

• National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA): This centrally sponsored scheme supports conservation and management of wetlands, covering activities like wastewater treatment, shoreline protection, and biodiversity conservation.
• Wetlands Rejuvenation Programme: Launched under the 'Start-up India' initiative, this program focuses on restoring and rejuvenating wetlands through community participation and sustainable management practices.
• Capacity Building and Outreach: The MoEFCC conducts workshops and training programs to enhance the knowledge and skills of stakeholders involved in wetland management.

Conclusion

Wetlands are indispensable components of our natural heritage, offering ecological, economic, and cultural benefits. Protecting and conserving these ecosystems is vital for sustaining biodiversity, ensuring water security, and combating climate change. Continued government efforts, coupled with community participation, are essential to safeguard these invaluable resources for future generations.

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Annexure – 1

The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017 were established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, to ensure the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands in India. These rules provide a regulatory framework for the protection of wetlands, aiming to prevent their degradation and promote their sustainable use. ​

Key Provisions of the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017:

• Definition of Wetlands: The rules provide a comprehensive definition of wetlands, encompassing areas like marshes, swamps, and other water bodies, irrespective of their size. ​
• Prohibition of Certain Activities: Certain activities detrimental to wetlands, such as solid waste dumping, untreated sewage discharge, and encroachments, are prohibited. ​
• Regulation of Activities: Activities like setting up industries, commercial use, and construction are regulated and require prior permission from the concerned authorities. ​
• Establishment of Wetland Authorities: The rules mandate the formation of State Wetland Authorities responsible for the identification, monitoring, and management of wetlands within their jurisdiction. ​
• Preparation of Management Plans: States and Union Territories are required to prepare detailed management plans for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. ​

Since their enactment, these rules have undergone amendments to address emerging challenges and enhance the effectiveness of wetland conservation efforts. For instance, in 2019, amendments were introduced to streamline the process of wetland identification and to strengthen the regulatory framework. ​

Recent Amendments:

• 2019 Amendments: These amendments aimed to simplify the procedures for the identification of wetlands and to enhance the powers of the authorities responsible for their management. ​
• 2021 Amendments: Focused on strengthening the enforcement mechanisms and introducing stricter penalties for violations related to wetland conservation.