A Study on Significance of Wetlands for Maintaining Ecological Balance

Protection of environment is one of the prime concerns for the wellbeing of all living creatures. Degradation of natural environment has occurred from population explosion, over consumption, excess technological growth, deforestation etc., all of which have resulted in negative impact on the environment and it has put the life of humans, animals and other living beings at risk. The main objective of the paper is to learn about significance of wetlands and to know the legal framework to conserve them to maintain ecological balance. There is need to conserve wetland and the Constitution of India also provides provisions for protection of environment and its elements. Ramsar Convention on wetlands, National Environment Policy 2006, Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules 2017 and judicial pronouncements also highlighted on protection of wetlands in India. Legal provisions and judicial decisions related to wetland provides us a clarity about the substantial role played by the wetlands in maintaining ecological balance and in turn contributing for the protection of environment. Different courts, tribunals, including National Green Tribunal have emphasised on significance of wetlands and conservation of wetlands to maintain ecological balance. Because wetlands play a prominent role in ecological balance, it is the prime duty and responsibility of all of us to conserve them and preserve them for future generation.