RAS question
In which state/UT is Khijadia Ramsar site located?
Correct answer: (A) Gujarat.
Khijadia Ramsar site, officially referred to as Khijadia Wildlife Sanctuary, is located in Gujarat.
Explanation
Khijadia is a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar framework and is located in Gujarat. The PIB release on World Wetlands Day 2022 states that two new Ramsar sites were announced: Khijadia Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat and Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh. The PIB release also describes Khijadia as a coastal wetland with rich avifaunal diversity, providing habitat for endangered and vulnerable species. Gujarat is the officially supported location of the Khijadia Ramsar site. Press Information Bureau, Government of India's older tally mentions 49 Ramsar sites in India, while India now has 80+ such sites under the Ramsar Convention of 1971.
Why the other options are wrong
- (B) Assam is wrong because the PIB release specifically places Khijadia Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat, not in Assam.
- (C) MP is wrong because Press Information Bureau, Government of India identifies Gujarat as the state for Khijadia Wildlife Sanctuary.
- (D) Tamil Nadu is wrong because Khijadia Wildlife Sanctuary is in Gujarat.
Concept
Environment and Ecology preparation requires map-based awareness of Ramsar site locations. Such questions recur in RAS because wetlands combine conservation treaties, current-affairs updates and state-wise geography.