ITANAGAR : Glaw Lake in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lohit district has been designated as India’s 101st Ramsar site, making it the state’s first wetland to receive the internationally recognised status.

Announcing the development on Monday, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav described the designation as a major milestone for biodiversity conservation, water and climate security, and sustainable livelihoods.

“Delighted to announce Glaw Lake as Arunachal Pradesh’s first Ramsar Site — a significant milestone for biodiversity, water and climate security, and sustainable livelihoods,” Yadav said in a post on X.

He noted that the pristine freshwater lake in the Eastern Himalayas is a biodiversity hotspot, fed by perennial mountain streams and surrounded by rich vegetation. More than 150 tree species and 49 orchid species have been recorded within the lake and its catchment area.

“Every new Ramsar Site strengthens our resolve to protect nature while securing the future of communities that depend on these invaluable ecosystems,” the Minister added.

Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance designated under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty adopted in 1971 to promote the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.

The convention seeks to halt the global loss of wetlands and ensure the wise use and effective management of these ecologically significant ecosystems. As part of the designation, member countries commit to establishing and implementing management measures for the long-term conservation of the notified wetlands. (Photo: Pema Khandu/Facebook)