Indore and Udaipur: India’s First Wetland-Accredited Cities + UPSC?.ToString()?? UPSC?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
Indore and Udaipur have become the first Indian cities to receive global recognition as accredited wetland cities under the Ramsar Convention’s Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) program. Indore’s Sirpur Lake and Udaipur’s five major wetlands were key factors in achieving this prestigious acknowledgment, highlighting the cities’ efforts in wetland conservation and sustainable management.
Key Takeaways
Indore: Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar site, is renowned for its water bird congregation and development into a bird sanctuary.
Udaipur: Known as the “City of Lakes,” it boasts five significant wetlands—Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai—which play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.
Global Recognition: Indore and Udaipur are now part of an exclusive list of 31 wetland-accredited cities worldwide, showcasing India’s commitment to wetland conservation.
Do You Know?
What is WCA?
The Wetland City Accreditation is a voluntary system introduced under the Ramsar Convention at COP12 in Uruguay (2015). It recognizes cities that actively value and conserve their wetlands. Accreditation is valid for six years and renewable based on compliance with six established criteria.
Significance of WCA:
Promotes conservation and sustainable use of urban and peri-urban wetlands.
Encourages cities to foster a positive relationship with these ecosystems for socio-economic and ecological benefits.
Supports India’s Amrit Dharohar initiative, which focuses on wetland conservation under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
Static Points About Ramsar Convention
The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty adopted in 1971 (effective from 1975) to conserve and ensure the wise use of wetlands and their resources.
India is home to 85 Ramsar sites, reflecting its rich and diverse wetland ecosystems.
Additional Observations
Indore and Udaipur's achievement in joining the list of wetland-accredited cities underscores the importance of integrating wetland conservation into urban planning. By fulfilling the six criteria of WCA—ranging from wetland restoration to public awareness—these cities demonstrate a model approach for others to follow.
Conclusion
The recognition of Indore and Udaipur as wetland-accredited cities marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward ecological sustainability. It not only highlights the country’s rich wetland heritage but also emphasizes the need for continued efforts in wetland conservation to ensure a harmonious balance between urban development and natural ecosystems.