The Save Wetlands Campaign, spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), has drawn to a close, leaving in its wake an impressive tide of accomplishments and a renewed sense of collaboration in India’s wetland conservation efforts.
Through meticulous ground-truthing efforts, the campaign has mapped and assessed the health of an astonishing 77,000+ wetlands across the nation. This comprehensive data set lays the foundation for informed management decisions, ensuring critical ecosystems receive the targeted attention they deserve. Furthermore, the creation of 6,248 wetland health cards provides a detailed snapshot of individual wetland health, guiding localized conservation strategies.
The campaign’s success extends far beyond mere numbers. It has sparked a nationwide conversation about the importance of wetlands, attracting the participation of over 766,938 individuals who have registered as Wetland Mitras. This enthusiastic network of advocates demonstrates a groundswell of public support for wetland conservation, promising a sustained movement for future generations. Additionally, over 1.9 million citizens have been reached through various awareness campaigns, amplifying the message of wetland protection and fostering a sense of shared responsibility.
Recognizing the inherent strength in collaboration, the campaign fostered the creation of 118 multi-stakeholder partnerships. These partnerships bring together a diverse range of actors, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and local communities, to collectively address wetland challenges. This collaborative approach ensures that all voices are heard and solutions are tailored to specific contexts, maximizing the impact of conservation efforts.
The campaign’s impact transcends mere statistics. Recognizing the potential of nature tourism to improve local livelihoods while showcasing the value of wetlands, the MoEF&CC partnered with the Ministry of Tourism. This collaboration birthed innovative programs that empower local communities residing near Ramsar Sites to harness the tourism potential of their wetland treasures, fostering sustainable economic development that goes hand-in-hand with conservation.
Furthermore, the campaign recognized the importance of educating future generations about wetland importance. Collaborating with CIET-NCERT, the campaign developed engaging educational videos targeted at school and college students. This initiative lays the groundwork for a more informed and environmentally conscious citizenry, ensuring future generations understand and value the critical role wetlands play in our shared biosphere.
The Save Wetlands Campaign serves as a beacon of hope for the future of India’s wetland ecosystems. The revised National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA) guidelines empower states to proactively manage their wetlands, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. Additionally, initiatives like Mission Sahbhagita and Amrit Dharohar continue to promote collaborative conservation and sustainable livelihoods, ensuring that the momentum generated by the campaign translates into long-lasting positive change.
