India's Ramsar Count Hits 98: Patna Bird Sanctuary, Chhari-Dhand Get International Tag

• Patna Bird Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh) and Chhari-Dhand (Gujarat) are India's newest Ramsar Sites, increasing the total to 98.
• The announcement was made by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, with PM Narendra Modi congratulating local communities.
• Patna Bird Sanctuary, though small, is a biodiversity hotspot supporting 178 bird species and 252 plant species.
• Chhari-Dhand in Kutch is a crucial seasonal saline wetland for migratory birds and desert mammals, including endangered species.
• India's Ramsar network has expanded significantly, from 26 sites in 2014 to 98 now, showcasing a strong conservation push.

Why It Matters: India adds two new Ramsar sites, Patna Bird Sanctuary and Chhari-Dhand, boosting its global wetland conservation efforts.