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World Wetlands Day History: Today is 2nd February. When the world is turning into concrete jungles, World Wetlands Day reminds us of the lakes, ponds and wetlands that are silently keeping our earth alive. But do you know that this day started from Ramsar, a small town in Iran. Let us understand the interesting history of this global movement and its deeper significance.

That historical year of Iran 1971

The matter is of 2 February 1971. Representatives from many countries of the world had gathered in Ramsar, a beautiful city situated on the coast of Caspian Sea in Iran. The objective was to save the continuously depleting ponds, lakes and wetlands. On the same day, the Ramsar Convention was signed which gave international legal recognition to the conservation of wetlands. However, the first World Wetlands Day was officially celebrated in 1997 and has continued since then.

Why are they called the kidneys of the earth?

Just as the kidneys work to purify the blood in our body, similarly wetlands filter water. They absorb pollutants and recharge groundwater. If today our cities are getting drinking water, then these wetlands have a big contribution in it. Apart from this, they also prevent cities from sinking by absorbing flood water.

Symbolic photo (Ms. Freepik)

Theme of World Wetlands Day 2026

A new resolution: Every year this day is celebrated with a special theme. The theme of the year 2026 centers around Wetlands and Human Wellbeing. This theme reminds us that this part of nature is essential not only for birds or fish but also for the physical and mental health of humans.

India and Ramsar Sites

This day is very special for India. Currently, there are more than 80 Ramsar sites in India, ranging from Chilika Lake in Odisha to Tso Kar Lake in Ladakh. Government schemes like Amrit Dharohar are not only preserving these sites but also developing them as major centers of eco-tourism.

Our future is in danger

History is witness to the fact that where civilizations flourished near water, they were destroyed when water was exhausted. Today, in the name of urbanization, buildings are being built by filling ponds. World Wetlands Day warns us that if these wetlands dry up, the water level in cities will fall and biodiversity will disappear.

This small spark that started from Ramsar in Iran has today become a global torch. World Wetlands Day is not just a day of government events but it is a call for every citizen to save the water sources around them.