New Delhi- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday announced that India has reached a significant environmental milestone with the designation of the Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary (Surha Tal) in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, as the country’s 100th Ramsar site.
Highlighting the importance of the achievement, the Prime Minister noted that the wetland is ecologically rich and supports a wide variety of bird species, including both migratory and resident populations. He said this recognition reflects India’s expanding efforts in conserving wetlands and strengthening biodiversity protection.
In a post on X, PM Modi described the development as a landmark moment in India’s journey of wetland conservation. He emphasised that sustained conservation work over the years—supported by local community participation, scientific approaches, technological interventions, and awareness campaigns—has helped restore and protect fragile ecosystems across the country.
He added that these combined efforts are contributing to safeguarding biodiversity, maintaining ecological balance, and ensuring a healthier environment for future generations.
Earlier in the day, on World Environment Day, the Prime Minister reiterated India’s commitment to building a cleaner and more sustainable future, aligned with the vision of “One Earth, One Family, One Future” and the broader Mission LiFE initiative focused on responsible lifestyle choices.
World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5 under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), serves as a global platform to raise awareness about environmental protection. The observance began in 1973 following the 1972 Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment, which brought environmental concerns into international policy discussions.
Over time, it has grown into a worldwide movement involving more than 150 countries, featuring activities such as plantation drives, cleanliness campaigns, educational programs, and policy initiatives. Each year, a host country and theme focus global attention on a specific environmental issue.
The day also underscores that while governments and institutions play a major role in conservation, individual actions—such as reducing waste, conserving water, using public transport, and adopting sustainable lifestyles—are equally important in addressing challenges like climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion.
With inputs from IANS