Bihar to Establish State Wetland Research and Training Centre as Part of Major Conservation Push

Patna: The Bihar government has announced the establishment of the Bihar State Wetland Research and Training Centre, a significant step towards enhancing the conservation and management of the state’s wetlands. This initiative, spearheaded by the Bihar State Wetland Authority, aims to foster research, training, and public awareness around wetland ecosystems, which are vital for biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

The decision was confirmed during a review meeting chaired by Dr. Prem Kumar, the state’s Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister. The meeting was attended by senior officials including the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and the Chief Wildlife Warden. Discussions focused on the implementation of the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, and the ongoing efforts to protect Bihar’s wetland areas.

As part of the government’s broader wetland management strategy, 88 major wetlands across 12 districts have been assessed, with health report cards prepared to guide their development in accordance with a comprehensive management plan. Additionally, 680 ‘wetland friends’ have been trained to promote public awareness and engage local communities in conservation efforts.

The state’s commitment to wetland conservation has been further underscored by the designation of several Ramsar sites, including the Nagi and Nakati bird sanctuaries in Jamui district, which were declared Ramsar sites earlier this year. The Kabar Tal wetland, designated in 2020, was Bihar’s first Ramsar site, and proposals have been submitted to include Udaipur, Gogabeel, and Gokul Reservoir on this prestigious list.

The Integrated Management Plan for Gokul Reservoir, which is set to be developed by 2027-28 at a cost of Rs. 32.483 crore, was also approved during the meeting. This is part of a wider initiative to improve wetland infrastructure and ensure long-term ecological stability in the state.

In addition, the Minister directed immediate action to declare five more wetlands—Sarotar Lake in Motihari, Narsan Chaur and Monikaman in Tirhut, Sunki Suiya Bhagar in Bhojpur, and Kadhio Chaur in Begusarai—as Ramsar sites, reinforcing Bihar’s dedication to protecting its rich ecological heritage.