How EIF Played a Key Role in Conservation of Udhwa Bird Sanctuary, now a Ramsar Site

Discover how Earth Ideas Foundation's dedicated efforts, from grassroots community engagement and extensive field studies to spirited awareness campaigns, transformed the declining Udhwa Bird Sanctuary. This blog chronicles our journey, celebrating the recent designation of Udhwa as a Ramsar Site—a monumental validation of our work and a new chapter for conservation in Jharkhand.

The panoramic view of Udhwa Bird Sanctuary

The air around Udhwa Bird Sanctuary hums with a new kind of energy – an energy born of sustained effort, community partnership, and a shared vision for conservation. For years, this vital sanctuary, Jharkhand's only declared bird haven since the early 90s, faced the quiet threat of deterioration. Its rich habitat, a seasonal home to migratory birds from as far as Central Asia and Europe, saw dwindling numbers, a silent alarm bell in our shared ecosystem.

The map layout of Udhwa Bird Sanctuary

At Earth Ideas Foundation (EIF), we recognized the urgent need to bring Udhwa back into the spotlight. It was more than just a sanctuary; it was a testament to the delicate balance between nature and human life. We embarked on an intensive journey, marked by countless field visits, meticulous assessments, and in-depth studies. We engaged directly with farming communities, raising awareness about pollution parameters and sensitizing them to the critical role they play in this shared landscape.

Pushing the cause of wetland conservation since inception

We knew that on-the-ground interventions needed the powerful backing of a spirited public campaign. Leveraging popular social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, our "Project Pakhi" campaign resonated far and wide. Local newspapers amplified our voice, drawing public attention to the issues ailing the sanctuary.

This sustained effort not only spurred crucial administrative action, leading to the sanctuary's improved manageability under the Dumka zone, but also awakened a profound awareness among the local population.

Our commitment to holistic conservation meant empowering the very communities that live alongside Udhwa. We proudly roped in Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sahibganj, to equip farming communities with knowledge on best agricultural practices, responsible fertilizer use, and organic composting.

Through knowledge sharing and engagement with nearly 150 farmers, we sought to transform them into willing and empowered participants in bird conservation. A pilot project is now underway, pooling 35 bighas for high-income crops like Til and Garma Moong, allowing us to study the consequent effects on water pollution and bird populations – a true testament to sustainable coexistence.

Understanding that public habits directly impact the sanctuary, we launched a spirited campaign against plastic pollution. Recognising the year-end surge in visitors turning the sanctuary into a picnic spot, coinciding with the migratory bird season, we orchestrated a sensitization drive.

We distributed 5,000 leaf plates and 1,000 earthen glasses ("Kulhad") – procured from local forest departments and potters to boost their livelihoods and local awareness – swapping them for plastic alternatives. This initiative, warmly received by the general public, inculcated a deeper sense of environmental responsibility.

To gauge the real pulse of the sanctuary, our team participated in the annual bird census in January 2021, alongside researchers from BNHS (Bombay Natural History Society) and census officials. Recording over 30 species, including the endangered band-tailed fish eagle and vulnerable common pochard and lesser adjutant stork, we gathered first-hand information on habitat, species, and threats. This invaluable data, soon to be released in a comprehensive report, informed a detailed pictorial book prepared by EIF to foster "bird watching" as a hobby among young minds.

Recognising the profound interconnection between birds, wetlands, and farmers, we successfully organized "World Wetlands Day" on February 2, 2021. In collaboration with the district administration and forest department, and with farming and fishing communities and schoolchildren in attendance, we highlighted Udhwa's significance as a prominent wetland spanning 5.65 sq. km, formed by the twin lakes of Patura and Berhale. 1,500 pamphlets detailing "Wetlands" importance were distributed, educating the rural population about these vital ecosystems.

Even amidst COVID restrictions, our commitment continued. On February 2, 2022, we celebrated "World Wetlands Day" with an awareness campaign at Udhwa High School, urging principals, teachers, and staff to encourage student participation. We also extensively toured 15 adjoining villages, distributing around 4,500 pamphlets on the 'Importance of Wetlands', hoping such sensitization drives will go a long way in strengthening environmental conservation.

A Dream Realized: Udhwa Bird Sanctuary is a Ramsar Site!

And then came the news that made all the tireless efforts, all the late nights, and all the community engagements worthwhile: Udhwa Bird Sanctuary has been officially declared a Ramsar Site!

The elation is immense. This recognition is not just a title; it's a validation of every field visit, every pamphlet distributed, every conversation with a farmer, every social media post, and every leaf plate swapped. It's the profound feeling of seeing your labour bear fruit, knowing that a place so vital, with its rich aquatic species including the widespread sedge grass Cyperus tagetum and its historical significance from the 1763 battle between the King of Bengal and the British, now holds a globally recognized status.

This achievement signifies a brighter future for the sanctuary and its incredible biodiversity, including over 140 bird species, with the Pataura Lake and Barhel Lake, surrounded by the Rajmahal Hills and linked to the Ganga River, now cemented as a wetland of international importance.

The Flight Continues: Our Future Expectations

This Ramsar designation marks a monumental milestone, not an end. It opens doors to enhanced conservation efforts, greater international collaboration, and improved funding opportunities.

We expect this status to further bolster administrative support, encourage more focused research, and draw even greater public attention to Udhwa's unique ecological value. This elevated profile will also reinforce the importance of sustainable practices among local communities, cementing their role as custodians of this invaluable natural heritage.

Earth Ideas Foundation will continue its unwavering commitment to Udhwa. We will leverage this Ramsar status to expand our programs, deepen our engagement with farming and fishing communities, and implement more comprehensive strategies for sustainable livelihoods and pollution control. We envision Udhwa becoming a model for community-led conservation, where nature and people thrive in harmony. The flight towards a truly resilient and vibrant future for Udhwa has just gained powerful new wings.