New Delhi, Jan. 31 -- Ahead of the World Wetlands Day on February 2, the Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, has announced the addition of two new wetlands to India's Ramsar network, as part of the wetlands expansion.

The two are Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah district of Uttar Pradesh and Chhari-Dhand in Gujarat's Kutch district.

The Minister said the Ramsar network has expanded by over 276 per cent, from 26 sites in 2014 to 98. The international recognition reflects India's strong commitment to protecting the environment and conserving its wetlands.

According to the Minister, these two wetlands provide habitat to hundreds of migratory and resident bird species, while the areas are also home to wildlife s...