Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh today said that India has made significant progress in wetland conservation, with the number of Ramsar sites increasing from 26 in 2014 to 98 at present. 

Addressing the event on World Wetlands Day 2026 in New Delhi, Mr Singh noted that wetlands are not just ecological assets but a source of traditional knowledge. He also highlighted the role of traditional knowledge in sustaining wetland ecosystems and preserving cultural identity.

During the event, Mr Singh felicitated 6 states for new Ramsar sites including Bihar, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Mr Singh also interacted with wetland mitras and appreciated their efforts in wetlands conservation and its management.