Which country has the highest number of Ramsar wetland sites in Asia as of 2025?

New Ramsar Wetland Sites in India (2025) The Indian government has announced the addition of four new Ramsar sites, enhancing the conservation of wetland ecosystems and biodiversity in the country. These sites are part of a global effort under the Ramsar Convention to promote wetland preservation. Newly Added Ramsar Sites in India • Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu: o Area: 230.49 hectares o Features: Man-made tank from 1321 A.D., crucial for migratory birds from Iran, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. • Therthangal Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu: o Area: 29.5 hectares o Features: Man-made tank, important bird migration route, located near Gulf of Mannar. • Khecheopalri Wetland, Sikkim: o Area: 11.56 hectares o Features: Cirque lake at 1700m, surrounded by lush forest, home to Trans-Himalayan migratory birds. • Udhwa Lake, Jharkhand: o Area: 565 hectares o Features: Consists of two interconnected water bodies, habitat for numerous bird species including the critically endangered Oriental white-backed vulture. Key Statistics and Facts • Total Ramsar Sites in India: 89, the highest in Asia, ahead of China with 82. • Global Ranking: India is third in the world after the United Kingdom (175 sites) and Mexico (142 sites). • Regional Significance: Tamil Nadu has the most Ramsar sites in India, with 20. Ramsar Convention on Wetlands • Objective: To conserve wetlands globally by designating them as Wetlands of International Importance. • India's Involvement: Ratified on 1 February 1982, with the first sites being Keoladeo National Park and Chilika Lake.