Civil society groups have demanded Ramsar site recognition for Meghalaya wetlands, opposing the proposed luxury resort at Lumpongdeng Island (Umiam Lake).

Context

The Meghalaya Government plans to develop Taj Umiam Resort and Spa on Lumpongdeng Island. However, environmental groups argue that such ecologically sensitive zones must be protected under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, rather than commercialised.

What is the Ramsar Convention?

• It is an international treaty adopted in the Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971 and came into force in 1975 for the conservation and wise use of wetlands.
  • It is not mandatory for the Government to conserve all wetlands under Ramsar convention.
• It is the only global treaty focusing on a single ecosystem. 
• India has been a signatory since 1982 and currently has 98 Ramsar sites.
• Wetlands designated as Ramsar sites are recognised as Wetlands of International Importance.

About Wetland

• As per Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010:
  • A “wetland” means an area or of marsh, fen, peatland or water; natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish water. 
• It also includes all inland waters such as lakes, reservoirs, tanks, backwaters, lagoon, creeks, estuaries etc.

Status of Meghalaya

• Meghalaya currently has no Ramsar site, like other NE states of Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh.
• Activists highlight lack of political will and administrative action.
• Key wetlands suggested for inclusion:
  • Umiam Lake (Ri-Bhoi district)
  • Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary wetlands

Ramsar Sites in Northeast India

• Assam: Deepor Beel (near Guwahati)
• Manipur: Loktak Lake
• Mizoram: Pala Wetland
• Tripura: Rudrasagar Lake

Exam Hook

Prelims Question:
Which of the following wetlands is a Ramsar site in Northeast India?

1. Deepor Beel
2. Rudrasagar Lake
3. Loktak Lake
   Select the correct answer:
   (a) 1 and 2 only
   (b) 1, 2 and 3
   (c) 2 and 3 only
   (d) 1 only

One-line wrap: Granting Ramsar status to Meghalaya’s wetlands is crucial to balance development with long-term ecological sustainability.

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