Answer
Chilika Lake and Keoladeo National Park
Explanation
In 1981, Chilika Lake (Odisha) and Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) were jointly recognized as the first Ramsar sites in India. Chilika is India's largest brackish water lake, and Keoladeo is famous for migratory birds. This recognition was a milestone in India's wetland conservation history.
Key Points
- > Chilika Lake is located in Odisha and is the largest coastal lagoon in Asia.
- > Keoladeo National Park is located in Bharatpur, Rajasthan.
- > Both sites were declared Ramsar sites in 1981.
- > Irrawaddy Dolphins are found in Chilika Lake.
- > Keoladeo was formerly the wintering ground for the Siberian crane.
- > Chilika was placed on the Montreux Record in 1993 but removed in 2002 after successful restoration.
Additional Information
First Ramsar Sites of India
| Site | State | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Chilika Lake | Odisha | Largest brackish water lake |
| Keoladeo | Rajasthan | Paradise for migratory birds |
| Sundarbans | West Bengal | Largest Ramsar site in India |
| Renuka Lake | Himachal Pradesh | Smallest Ramsar site in India |
Memory Tips
- First Two: Chilika and Keoladeo -> Remember C.K. (like C.K. Naidu).