Consider the following statements :
- Under the Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.
- The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of Ramsar Convention.
- The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 3 — 3 only
Only Statement 3 is correct. The Ramsar Convention does not mandate protection of all wetlands in a country's territory, only those designated as Ramsar sites. The 2010 Rules were framed under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, not based on Ramsar recommendations. However, the 2010 Rules do include drainage areas and catchment regions in the definition of wetlands.
❌ Statement 1 – Incorrect: The Ramsar Convention requires contracting parties to designate suitable wetlands for international importance and promote their wise use, but does not mandate protection of all wetlands in the entire territory.
❌ Statement 2 – Incorrect: The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, not based on specific recommendations of the Ramsar Convention.
✅ Statement 3 – Correct: The 2010 Rules explicitly include the drainage area or catchment regions of wetlands as determined by the authority in the definition of 'wetland'.
📝 Short Notes: Wetlands Conservation Framework in India
- Ramsar Convention (1971): International treaty for conservation and wise use of wetlands; India is a signatory since 1982.
- Ramsar Sites in India: Countries designate specific wetlands of international importance; not all wetlands are covered.
- Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010: Framed under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; included catchment areas in wetland definition.
- Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017: Replaced 2010 Rules; streamlined regulatory process and strengthened wetland conservation.
- Definition of Wetland: Includes areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water (natural or artificial, permanent or temporary) with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water.
- Wise Use Concept: Maintenance of ecological character of wetlands through sustainable use compatible with conservation goals.
Question 2 of 4 Ramsar Convention
Practice PYQ questions from this topic across all years
Consider the following pairs: Wetland/Lake - Location Hokera Wetland - Punjab Re...
With reference to a conservation organization called Wetlands International, which of...