Glaw Lake Becomes Arunachal Pradesh’s First Ramsar Site; India’s Ramsar Sites Tally Reaches 101

Key Highlights:

• Glaw Lake in Arunachal Pradesh has been designated as India's 101st Ramsar Site.
• This marks Arunachal Pradesh's first Ramsar Site, announced by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav on August 3, 2026.
• India's tally of Ramsar Sites has increased significantly from 26 in 2014 to 101 currently.
• The lake is located within the Kamlang Tiger Reserve and Wildlife Sanctuary.
• It is a pristine freshwater lake in the Eastern Himalayas, supporting over 150 tree species and 49 orchid species.

Detailed Insights:

• The designation of Glaw Lake is a significant step for biodiversity conservation, water and climate security, and sustainable livelihoods.
• This expansion of the Ramsar network reflects India's unwavering commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.
• Every new Ramsar Site reinforces India’s resolve to protect nature while safeguarding communities dependent on these vital ecosystems.
• Glaw Lake is recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, fed by perennial mountain streams and surrounded by lush vegetation.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Ramsar Site: A wetland site designated to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
• Wetland: An area of land that is either permanently or seasonally saturated with water, playing a crucial ecological role.
• Biodiversity Hotspot: A biogeographic region with significant levels of biodiversity that is threatened by human habitation.