Arunachal Pradesh’s Glaw Lake becomes First Ramsar Site; India’s Ramsar Sites tally reaches 101

Union Environment Minister announces the landmark addition, highlighting India’s commitment to Wetland Conservation, Biodiversity Protection and Sustainable Livelihoods

Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, today announced the designation of Glaw Lake in Arunachal Pradesh as India’s 101st Ramsar Site, marking a significant milestone as the State gets its first Ramsar Site. In a social media post on ‘X’, the Minister described the development as an important step for biodiversity conservation, water and climate security, and sustainable livelihoods.

Shri Yadav highlighted the remarkable expansion of India’s Ramsar network under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. “From 26 Ramsar Sites in 2014 to 101 today, this remarkable journey reflects our unwavering commitment to environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development”, he said. The Minister further emphasised that every new Ramsar Site reinforces India’s resolve to protect nature while safeguarding the interests of communities dependent on these vital ecosystems.

Celebrating the achievement, the Minister stated, “India continues Her journey beyond a century in designating Ramsar Sites.” With the addition of Glaw Lake, the number of Ramsar Sites in India has reached 101, reflecting the country’s continued commitment to conserving its invaluable wetland ecosystems.

Located within the Kamlang Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary, Glaw Lake is a pristine freshwater lake in the Eastern Himalayas and a biodiversity hotspot. The lake is fed by perennial mountain streams and is surrounded by lush vegetation, supporting rich floral diversity. The Minister informed that the wetland has over 150 tree species and 49 orchid species recorded within the site and its catchment, underscoring the ecological significance of Glaw Lake and its surrounding landscape.