Shillong, April 17: The Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organization today sent memorandum to the Chief Minister of Meghalaya Mr. Conrad K Sangma asked the state government to Implement the Ramsar Convention for Wetland Protection in Meghalaya.
In the memorandum HITO claim that after conducting extensive research and analysis, we believe that it is crucial to address the importance of this international treaty, which was adopted on February 2, 1971, in Ramsar, Iran. This treaty provides a comprehensive framework for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands and their invaluable resources.
The Ramsar Convention is the only global environmental treaty dedicated specifically to wetlands, emphasizing international cooperation to safeguard these critical ecosystems. Wetlands play an essential role in maintaining biodiversity, regulating water cycles, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
It is noteworthy that India became a contracting party to the Ramsar Convention on February 1, 1982, committing to the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands within its borders.
As of early 2026, India boasts 98 designated Ramsar sites, with important examples including Chilika Lake in Odisha and Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan, which were recognized as the first Indian wetlands of international importance under this treaty in 1981.
In the Northeast, while states like Assam and Tripura have Ramsar sites, such as Deepor Beel and Rudrasagar Lake respectively, Meghalaya unfortunately remains without any designated Ramsar site. This absence is largely attributed to a lack of political will and administrative action directed towards wetland conservation.
The ongoing agitation led by the Green Tech Foundation to preserve Lumpongdeng highlights the urgent need for governmental intervention in wetland preservation. HITO firmly believe that the state government must act decisively to implement Ramsar site status for significant wetlands in Meghalaya.
HITO pointed out particularly for UmIam and Nongkhyllem, to ensure the protection and preservation of these ecologically vital areas. Furthermore, we advocate for the consideration of additional wetlands in our state, as needed, to secure their ecological integrity.
HITO hope that our demand will be acknowledged and acted upon promptly, as we must take proactive measures to safeguard the natural heritage bestowed upon us. Protecting these ecosystems is not only a responsibility but also a moral obligation to ensure that we leave a thriving environment for future generations. the letter was sign by the President Mr. Donbok Dkhar.
