Wetlands International South Asia Annual Report I 2019 - 2020

Wetlands International South Asia Annual Report i 2019 - 2020

Published by Wetlands International South Asia A – 25, Floors 1 & 2, Defence Colony New Delhi – 110024, INDIA [email protected]

Report ID 2020 – Annual Report – 01

Disclaimer The presentation of material in this document and geographical designations employed do not imply the expression of any opinion of whatsoever nature on the part of Wetlands International South Asia concerning the legal status of any country, area, or territory, or concerning delimitation of boundaries or frontiers. Usual disclaimers apply.

Photographs Cover: A Sarus Crane in Dhanauri Wetlands, Uttar Pradesh, Back Cover: Traditional shrimp collection in Muthupet, Tamil Nadu

Photo Credits Wetlands International South Asia Library [Harsh Ganapathi (Cover, Backcover, Pg. 23,), Ridhi Saluja (Pg. 8), S Balachandran (Pg. 12), Dushyant Mohil (Pg. 19, 20, 22), Kamal Dalakoti (Pg. 38, 40), Nehha Sharma (Pg.26), Dhaval Vargiya (Pg. 34), UPSWA (Pg. 30)

ii Wetlands International South Asia

Wetlands International South Asia is a non- and field demonstrations for addressing  communication, education and outreach government organisation working for various issues related to wetland management. sustaining and restoring wetlands, their A multidisciplinary team within the Presently, Dr Sidharth Kaul (former Advisor, resources and biodiversity in the South Asia organisation and expert network enable Wetlands, Ministry of Environment, Forest region. Its office in New Delhi (India) was providing evidence-based scientific and and Climate Change) is the President of the established in 1996 as a part of the Wetlands technical advice to central and state Society. Dr Ajit Pattnaik (former Principal International network. Wetlands International governments, wetland authorities, and civil Chief Conservation of Forests, Forest and is a global, independent, non-profit society on various aspects of wetland Environment Department, Government of organisation dedicated to conservation and management. The projects implemented have Odisha) is the Vice President. Dr J. K. Garg restoration of wetlands, and presently works in covered the following wide-ranging elements, (Senior Fellow, TERI School of Advanced over 100 countries through a network of 20 designed and delivered in partnership with Sciences) is the Honorary Treasurer of the regional and national offices and expert central government ministries, state Society. Dr Ritesh Kumar (Director, Wetlands networks with Global Office in The government departments and agencies, wetland International South Asia) is the ex-officio Netherlands. Wetlands International is also management authorities, civil society and Secretary of the Society. one of the five International Organisation research organisations: Partners of the Ramsar Convention. In 2005,  integrated management planning The Governing Body comprises the Office Wetlands International South Asia was  wetland inventory, assessment and Bearers, three members elected by the General registered under the Societies Registration Act monitoring system Body and Chief Executive Officer, Wetlands of Government of India (retaining remit of  valuation of ecosystem services and International. Dr C. K. Varshney (Professor South Asia region). biodiversity Emeritus, Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal  environmental flows assessment Nehru University), Dr E. J. James (Professor Wetlands International South Asia works for  conservation of critical habitats of wetland- Emeritus, Karunya University) and Dr Asad wetland conservation in ways which relate to dependent species, Rahmani (former Director, Bombay Natural the nature of wetlands as ecosystems, and the  capacity development for integrated wetland History Society) serve as elected members of wider biophysical and social contexts in which management the General Body. Ms Jane Madgwick, CEO, they are placed and function. The organisation Wetlands International represents Wetlands  policy formulation support endeavors to use a mix of approaches International on the Governing Body. including technical knowledge, policy dialogue  community-led ecosystem-based approaches for disaster risk reduction

iii Legend Wular Pong Jammu & Kashmir Himachal Pradesh Ongoing Projects Chandertal Himachal Pradesh Completed Projects High Altitude Wetlands Hindu Kush Himalayas States with active projects Harike & Ropar Renuka Punjab Debkhal Himachal Pradesh Bihar Kabartal Bihar Yamuna Floodplains Gurudongmar New Delhi Sikkim

Keoladeo National Park Deepor Rajasthan Assam Loktak Little Rann of Kachchh Tala Manipur Gujarat Bangladesh Rudrasagar East Kolkata Wetlands Tripura Khijadiya West Bengal Bhola Island Gujarat Hirakud Reservoir Bangladesh Chandrabhaga Odisha Sundarbans Gujarat West Bengal Mahanadi Delta Gosabara Odisha Gujarat Bhitarkanika Odisha Chilika Odisha Gulf of Khambhat Tampara Gujarat Odisha

Kolleru Andhra Pradesh Arabian Sea Bay of Bengal Vembanad Kol Point Calimere Kerala Tamil Nadu

Sasthamkotta Kerala Post Tsunami Ashtamudi Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu Kerala Pondicherry and Kerala Hurra Islands iv Maldives From the President

It gives me great pleasure once again to present before you the Annual Report of Since March 2020, world over the spread of Covid-19 pandemic has forced us to Wetlands International South Asia Society for 2019-2020. We have made it more revalue our relationship with nature. While economies have taken a hit and the target oriented and projected it in a form so that our main efforts put in are easily country stares into one of its worst recessions, nature has revitalized. Images of understandable and pave our way towards result oriented actions to save our improved water quality in river Ganges and Yamuna, rejuvenated wetlands, and wetlands from further degradation. reappearing waterbird congregations abound on the internet and social media, are reminding us of a fact that the conservationists have long been crying hoarse to We also thank our General Body members for reposing faith in the same communicate our economic development pathways are not consistent with management team once again and electing us for 2020-2023 triennium. I am sure conservation. We have used the time to work on technical deliverables such as your guidance and support will always steer our way towards increasing the manuals on management planning, wetlands and climate change and wetlands and Society’s role towards better management of wetlands not only in India but in disaster risk reduction. entire South Asia. While we have shifted to new working arrangement in a post Covid-19 world, the During the year, the Society continued its efforts work for establishment of a work has nonetheless continued with great vigor. In the coming year, we will be South Asia regional initiative to promote wise use of wetlands in this region setting up our priorities for the next decade and your inputs will be vital in the through capacity development and supporting application of recent scientific and process. We will also work to expand our membership base so that our reach and technical advancements in the management of wetlands. The first consultation representativeness is enhanced. The work on capacity development of wetlands meeting in this regard was held at Colombo in September, 2019, wherein managers and stakeholders will be deepened and new methods of delivering representatives of five national focal points of South Asian countries reaffirmed the training using virtual tools will be tested. values of a regional platform, and clarified the role such a platform can have in the region. The work on integration of climate change dimensions of wetlands was In 2021, Wetlands International South Asia will be marking its silver jubilee year further advanced in the form of a national vulnerability assessment. Through a of inception. This landmark will be celebrated in a befitting manner with events proactive network of NGOs and CSOs, we enabled integration of wetlands in local taking place round the year. developmental plans, thus demonstrating an alternative approach to engage communities in conservation and wise use of wetlands resources. In High Altitude Once again, we thank all our Society Himalayas region, we undertook baseline assessments of wetlands in Sikkim and members, donors, partners and staff for Himachal Pradesh, which will be integrated in management plans for these sites. joining us in the endeavor to conserve and sustainably manage wetlands We also continued to work with Global Conventions. We supported designation of new Ramsar Sites, while stressing on better management of existing sites with Dr Sidharth Kaul proper monitoring and evaluation. We also played an active role in framing up of President

National Action Plan for implementation of Central Asian Flyway Action Plan, a th September 23, 2020 commitment which was highlighted by the Hon’ble Prime Minister at the 13 New Delhi Conference of Parties meeting held in February at Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

v Contents Abbreviations

AWC Asian Waterbird Census Wetlands International South Asia ...... iii BNHS Bombay Natural History Society From the President ...... v CAF Central Asian Flyway CCA Climate Change Adaptation From the Director’s Desk ...... vii CMS Convention on Migratory Species CoP Conference of Parties Year at a glance ...... 1 CSO Civil Society Organisation Building blocks for a South Asia platform for wetlands’ managers ...... 2 DDMP District Disaster Management Plan DORP Development Organisation of the Rural Poor Wetlands and climate resilience ...... 5 DRR Disaster Risk Reduction Eco-DRR Ecosystem based approaches for Disaster Risk Reduction Conserving high-altitude Himalayan wetlands ...... 9 EMR Ecosystem Management and Restoration Local action for integrating wetlands in disaster risk and water security FGDs Focus Group Discussions GPDP Gram Panchayat Development Plan planning ...... 13 GPDRR Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction Strengthening wetlands management ...... 19 HAW High Altitude Wetlands ILEC International Lake Environment Committee Engagement with Conventions and Global Platforms ...... 23 IKI International Climate Initiative IRM Integrated Risk Management Mobilizing citizen science for waterbirds ...... 27 IWC International Waterbird Census Celebrating World Wetlands Day 2020 ...... 31 MoEFCC Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change MoU Memorandum of Understanding Governance ...... 33 NGO Non Government Organisation PfR Partners for Resilience Financial Overview and Audited Statements ...... 34 RIS Ramsar Information Sheet Outlook 2020 and beyond ...... 37 RRCEA Ramsar Regional Center East Asia SWAK State Wetlands Authority Kerala Wetlands International South Asia Society Members ...... 39 TNC Third National Communication Publications ...... 41 UNDP United Nations Development Programme UPSWA Uttar Pradesh State Wetlands Authority Wetlands International South Asia Office ...... 42 WASH Water Sanitation and Hygiene

vi From the Director’s Desk The year 2019-2020 set the tone for the super enhance our reach and impact. With a new to designation of Ramsar sites, without year for nature, although the Covid-19 membership strategy being considered by the creating enabling conditions for addressing the pandemic has greatly overshadowed it’s Governing Body, we will be able to diversify threats on these ecosystems. We will be unfolding and many processes such as setting skill sets, capacities and geographical presence, working on effective monitoring of wetlands, of post-2020 biodiversity framework has been provide a platform for diverse stakeholders to and building capacity of managers to develop delayed. engage in and contribute affirmatively to and implement integrated management of For the first time, the Conference of Parties of conservation of wetlands in South Asia region, these ecosystems. We will also work to bring to the Convention on Migratory Species met in and enhance representation in Wetlands fore the role of wetlands in building water India at Gandhinagar in February 2020. After International South Asia’s voice and opinion system resilience. Forging natural more than a decade since we facilitated the on issues related to wetlands. infrastructure of wetlands with the meeting of Range Countries of the Central conventional physical infrastructure of water Asian Flyway in 2005, we see the Flyway The entire region is replete with stories of resources can bring multiple advantages to the Action Plan being operationalized. India has wetlands reclamation and wanton destruction. water sector, and provide the water sector taken a lead by preparing its own national Yet, there are also stories of hope, coming in required flexibility to address climate change plan, to which we contributed in drafting, and small measures in efforts of motivated induced uncertainties and risks. is putting down the blueprint for a Flyway individuals. From a school child of Kashmir Secretariat for range countries. With the CoP who is daily spending time to keep Dal clean The work showcased in this Annual Report is Presidency being with India for the next three to a techie in Bangalore who has revived a reflection of astute guidance of our Board years, it will be an important window for us to several urban lakes, there are several stories Members, continued support of donors and partners, and hard work put in by my pursue greater action on high ornithological which indicate that all is not lost. While we colleagues. value wetlands which form an important will continue to step up pressure on ecological network in Central Asian Flyway government by reminding on the consequences Dr Ritesh Kumar region. of wetlands degradation, our efforts will also Director be directed towards understanding the 2021 will be silver jubilee year for Wetlands motivations behind positive actions taken by September 23, 2020 New Delhi International South Asia. We have come a these individuals and networks, and try to long way from a humble beginning with amplify and upscale efforts. implementing first overseas funded project on wetlands in North East India to be working The coming year will also mark five decades of presently in over 15 states, with diverse establishment of Ramsar Convention. stakeholder groups and partners. Yet, the Unfortunately, Convention implementation in continued loss of wetlands reminds us to most South Asian countries has been limited

vii

Gurudongmar, Sikkim – Wetlands International South Asia is preparing management plan for this High-Altitude Wetland 8 Year at a glance

The work of Wetlands International South During 2019-2020, our work focused on the Asia is guided by the South Asia Regional following areas, cutting across one or more Strategy 2015-25. Regional targets and workstreams: actions around three workstreams (healthy • Building a South Asia platform for wetlands nature, vibrant coasts and deltas, wetlands managers and replenished water stores from • Wetlands and climate resilience mountains to sea) guide the organization • Conserving high-altitude wetlands towards achieving its mission and goal. • Local action for integrating wetlands conservation in water security and disaster Wetlands International South Asia has a risk reduction plans mission to “sustain and restore wetlands, • Strengthening wetlands management their resources and biodiversity”. The long- • Mobilizing citizen-science for waterbirds term goal that the organization seeks to • Engaging with Conventions and Global achieve is: “wetlands are wisely used and Platforms restored for the role they play in improving human livelihoods, conserving In the following sections, we present biodiversity, sustaining the water cycle and highlights of our work, and also indicate the reducing climate change and impacts”. ways in which the work will be continued towards achieving the desired results.

1 Building blocks for a South Asia platform for wetlands’ managers

The Contracting Parties to the Ramsar entered into a Memorandum of Understanding Highlights Convention are committed to the wise use of with the Ramsar Regional Center East Asia for wetlands, through effective policies and building capacity for integrated wetlands Regional meeting of Ramsar National Focal Points programmes. Executing management plans in management and strengthening endorsed the relevance of a regional platform and an integrated manner with sustainability as a implementation of Ramsar Convention in the identified capacity building areas guiding principle is a critical element of South Asia region. wetlands wise use. Regional homogeneities in Workstreams the wetland regimes in South Asia, their In 2019-2020, work on establishing South Asia influencing drivers and pressures, policy platform was continued, key milestones being Healthy wetlands nature environment, and capacities indicate a follow-up meeting of South Asia Ramsar Site

possibilities of benefitting from regional managers at Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Partners collaboration and exchange. Keeping this in Integrated Lake Basin Management workshop Ramsar Regional Center East Asia, International view, we have initiated the process for for South Asian wetlands managers in our Water Management Institute, International Lake establishment of a South Asia platform for office. Environment Committee wetlands managers, with Ramsar Convention Ramsar National Focal Points Roundtable, as the binding glue. Colombo At the Ramsar 13th Conference of Parties A Roundtable of Ramsar National Focal Points meeting held in October 2018 at Dubai, we of South Asia region was held during

2 September 2-3, 2019 at International Water and lessons learnt. The platform could also attended by 23 participants from India and Management Institute Headquarters in support: Nepal. Colombo, Sri Lanka. Organised by Wetlands  monitoring of Ramsar Sites and other International South Asia in collaboration with wetlands in the region; Case studies on lake basin management the International Water Management Institute  collation of case studies and best practices initiatives from Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Department of Wildlife and Conservation, on wetlands wise use; Madhya Pradesh and Nepal were discussed. Dr Government of Sri Lanka, the overarching aim  development of a roster of wetlands expert A.K. Pattnaik (Vice-President, Wetlands of the meeting was to identify specific capacity in the region; and, International South Asia) oriented the development and knowledge needs,  capacity development of wetlands members on the integrated management collaborating on which we can create an managers. guidelines of the Ministry of Environment, enabling environment for the wise use of The members proposed that the first training Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). Dr N. wetlands in South Asia, and mechanisms for course be organised on 'wetlands and water Nakamura (Professor, RCSE-SU and chair, enhancing learning and experience sharing management' theme. Bangladesh offered to ILEC) further provided insights on governance within the region. host the next roundtable meeting of the issues that can ensure proper management of platform. The RRCEA has kindly offered to wetlands. ILEC and Wetlands International Nominees of Ramsar Focal Points from India, support organization of the follow-up South Asia are in discussions for formalizing Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal and Bangladesh, workshop, wherein we also aim to finalize the their collaboration for building capacity of along with officials of Wetlands International modalities of the platform. wetlands managers in applying basin-scale South Asia, International Water Management management in South Asia region. Institute, the World Bank Sri Lanka Office, Meeting of International Lake Basin and Global Water Partnership attended the Management two-day meeting. Practitioners

International Lake The roundtable participants agreed on the Environment Committee need for establishment of a South Asia Foundation (ILEC) and Regional Forum for Wetlands under the aegis Wetlands International of Ramsar Convention. Wetlands International South Asia held a three- South Asia was encouraged to develop a day workshop of wetlands proposal for consideration as a Ramsar practitioners to discuss Regional Initiative, with due consultation and progress in approval of all Ramsar Focal Points of the implementation of region. The purpose of the regional initiative Integrated Lake Basin would be to support the implementation of Management (ILBM) Ramsar Convention by building capacity, plans. The workshop was Participants from India, Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh regional exchange, and sharing best practices and Sri Lanka at the Roundtable meeting, Colombo

Point Calimere, Tamil Nadu: Wetlands International South Asia is assisting Forest Department in integrating climate 4 risks in management planning Wetlands and climate resilience

Management planning for wetlands seldom development of a climate change adaptation Highlights take into account the risks induced by climate framework for Indian wetlands, based on change. Wetlands International South Asia, overview of published literature.  Developed a national wetlands trend index with financial support of International Climate (1980-2014) Initiative (IKI) Programme of the German A wetlands extent trend index was constructed  Completed a qualitative vulnerability Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature using data on extent change from 240 assessment of wetlands to climate change and Conservation and Nuclear Safety and United wetlands. The index is based on the Wetland impacts Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is Extent Trends method used in the Global  Assessed climate scenarios for Chilika (RCP 4.5 demonstrating the ways in which climate Wetlands Outlook. The index for 1980-2014 and 8.5) to guide for climate inclusive vulnerability of wetlands can be assessed and indicates an average decline in natural management planning factored in management planning processes. wetlands area by 41% and a near commensurate increase in area under human- Workstreams Climate vulnerability assessment made wetlands by 44%. Healthy wetlands nature, Vibrant coasts and deltas The MoEFCC, within the preparations for India’s Third National Communication (TNC) Natural inland wetlands were observed to have Partners to the United Nations Framework Convention increased in Trans-Himalayan Zone (by 87%), GIZ-India, Chilika Development Authority on Climate Change, has included wetlands and declined in all other zones (minimum loss within assessments related to Impacts, of 5% in Desert zone, and maximum loss of Vulnerability and Adaptation. Wetlands 71% in the Gangetic Plains). International South Asia was entrusted with

5 Inland human-made wetlands have increased Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) received from Mahanadi River distributaries, in all biogeographic zones (minimum in 4.5 and 8.5 climate models. runoff from western catchments and rainfall) Deccan Peninsula by 3% and maximum in are also projected to decline. There is only one Desert by 257%). Coastal natural wetlands have Analysis of climatic parameters indicate a scenario (RCP 8.5 for short term, 2020-2049) declined by 51%, an increase in area under declining rainfall, as well as increase in period which indicates a net increase in mangroves (71%), being offset by a decline in maximum and minimum temperatures for the annual freshwater inflows. mudflats (73%), lagoons (62%) and beaches Chilika basin. (39%). Coastal human-made wetlands have The models also indicate an increasing increased by 619%, the maximum increase probability of extreme precipitation events, being in aquaculture ponds (2908%). namely floods and droughts. Freshwater inflows into the lagoon (the components For vulnerability analysis, the scale of biogeographic zones was used, and data constructed for qualitative analysis using over 300 published papers and reports. The vulnerability assessment indicates that the natural wetlands located in Trans-Himalayas, Himalayas, Desert, Coasts and Islands are most vulnerable to climate change impacts. Wetlands in Semi-arid and Indo-Gangetic plains biogeographic zones are moderately vulnerable. Wetlands of Deccan Peninsula, North-East and Western Ghats have low vulnerability to climatic changes.

The final technical report of the assessment will be published in November 2020, and will feed into our strategy and actions for promoting integration of wetlands in climate change.

Developing climate scenarios for Chilika Hydrological Flows of Chilika were modelled for two climate scenarios namely A Wetland Extent trends index for India

6 Changes in freshwater inflows have a direct 3000 consequence for salinity regimes. The modelled 2500 outcomes indicate increasing salinity levels in 2000 non-monsoon seasons for all sectors, while monsoon flushing effect being maintained. 1500

1000 Precipitation (mm) Precipitation In 2020, the outcomes will be finalized with 500 specific recommendations for Chilika 0

management.

1957 1971 1978 1992 2006 2013 2027 2041 2048 2062 2076 2083 2097 1950 1964 1985 1999 2020 2034 2055 2069 2090

Historical RCP 4.5 RCP 8.5

36 C) ° 35

31 Maximum TemperatureMaximum (

1964 1971 1985 1992 2006 2013 2034 2041 2055 2062 2076 2083 1950 1957 1978 1999 2020 2027 2048 2069 2090 2097

Historical RCP 4.5 RCP 8.5

27 C) ° 26

22 Minimum TemperatureMinimum (

1964 1971 1985 1992 2006 2013 2034 2041 2055 2062 2076 2083 1950 1957 1978 1999 2020 2027 2048 2069 2090 2097

Historical RCP 4.5 RCP 8.5 Modelled trends in freshwater inflows into Chilika for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 Scenarios Modelled trends in climatic parameters for Chilika direct basin for RCP 4.5 and RCP8.5 Scenarios

Mapping peat extent in Chandra Basin, Himachal Pradesh 8 Conserving High-Altitude Himalayan Wetlands

Highlights The UNDP-GEF Secure Himalayas project During the year, we completed the in priority landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, ecological character description of the two Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir and wetlands using data from field and  Completed ecological character description of 2 high altitude Himalayan wetlands Uttarakhand aims to support the secondary data from published sources and  Mapped extent of shallow peat in Chandra Government of India and State various state government departments. Basin Governments to effectively promote sustainable land and forest management in In Chandertal basin, presence of shallow Workstreams alpine pastures and forests in high range peat bogs was recorded during fieldwork. Healthy wetlands nature, Replenished water stores Indian Himalayan ecosystems that secure These were assessed for carbon stocks and from mountain to sea sustainable livelihoods and ensures depth profile based on methodology conservation of globally significant suggested by Ramsar. Sampling in two Partners biodiversity and threatened species. clusters indicated the depth to range from UNDP-India, State Wetlands Authority of Sikkim Integrated management of wetlands have 0.1m to 1m. Based on soil sample analysis, it and Himachal Pradesh been included within the range of is estimated that the carbon stock in the interventions being undertaken within the examined peat locations can range from 17- project framework. Wetlands International 120 kg/m3. Notably, the presence of peat South Asia is entrusted with development of bogs in the Chandertal peat trench region model management planning frameworks for has also been reported in some recent two priority wetlands: Chandertal in paleological studies conducted by Birbal Himachal Pradesh and Gurudongmar in Sahni Institute. Sikkim.

The result of the assessment were presented during a session on high altitude wetlands organized by G B Pant Institute on December 10, 2019 on the International Mountain Day, 2019. In the coming year, the management plans will be completed and submitted to the concerned State Wetlands Authorities for implementation. We will continue to engage with the Himalayan States for conservation of HAW for water and climate security.

Peatlands in Chandra Basin

11 Peatlands in Chandra Basin

Wetlands International South Asia partners conducted 20 outreach workshops on wetlands 12

Local action for integrating wetlands in disaster risk and water security planning

Highlights Wetlands International South Asia is working with SEEDS in Saharsa District to implementing two Strategic Partnership catalyze community led wetlands management  Supported integration of wetlands rejuvenation Programmes, Partners for Resilience and as a means of building resilience to water- interventions in development plans of 50+ Gram Watershed, which aim at developing civil mediated disaster risks. The Partners for Panchayats society capacity to engage in local development Resilience (PfR) alliance was launched in 2010  Partners conducted 20 outreach workshops on role agendas. building community resilience. Our and continues its work under the strategic of wetlands in securing water and reducing water- interventions under these partnerships are partnership with the Netherlands government structured at promoting consideration of (2016-2020) and the Eco-DRR programme in mediated risks reaching out to 21,000 people wetlands rejuvenation within local partnership with UNEP (2018-2021). The Workstreams developmental planning processes as means to alliance was founded by five Netherlands based Vibrant coasts and deltas, Replenished water stores from achieve water security and buffer water- organisations: Cordaid, CARE Netherlands, Wetlands International, The Red Cross Red mountain to sea mediated risks. Crescent Climate Centre and the Netherlands Partners Enabling community action for wetlands Red Cross and contributes to the resilience of Indian Red Cross, IRC, Akvo-India, Unnati (Gujarat), rejuvenation in Saharsa, North Bihar communities by integrating climate change Netcoast and Gram Utthan (Odisha), SEEDS and NIDAN Under the aegis of Partners for Resilience adaptation (CCA) and ecosystem management and restoration (EMR) into Disaster Risk (Bihar), DORP (Bhola Sadar Upzila, Bangladesh) initiative, Wetlands International South Asia is Reduction (DRR).

13 and intensification of land use. These changes allocation of Rs. 68 million by the Department have made a flood-dependent community flood of Water Resources for rejuvenation of vulnerable as the landscape remains wetlands and streams of the District. The waterlogged for prolonged periods, and water funds will be used to clear the wetland inlets scarce in summer. and outlets, and remove invasive species, and selective dredging to improve water holding We have been working with SEEDS in this capacity. landscape to build coping capabilities of communities by: improving community In 2019, the Government of Bihar has capacity to assess local water contexts and launched the three-year Jal-Jeevan Hariyali understand vulnerabilities; monitor wetlands Mission to restore water resources and improve and prepare for extreme hydrological events; environment. SEEDS has used the mission to and including wetland restoration as a promote awareness on role of wetlands for response to risk of floods and drought within water security. On January 19, 2020, the local developmental planning. partners organized a human-chain with over 17,000 people around a wetland, pledging In 2018, a map of wetlands of the district was support to prevent their degradation and prepared. Surveys were conducted to collect participate in wetlands conservation measures. Communities of Saharsa formed a human chain to showcase information on the condition of wetlands, the importance of wetlands current use, ownership and threats. During In 2020, as the engagement under PfR will October - December 2019, 21 task forces were draw to a close, the partners will work towards The wetlands of Saharsa act as the natural formed, with 12 members each to raise further building of community institutions to buffers of the landscape – absorbing excess awareness amongst community members on monitor wetlands and prevent their rain and river overflows during the monsoon the value of wetlands, and enlist support for degradation. Affirmative actions will be made months and discharging the same during dry actions for rejuvenating wetlands within the part of GPDPs, and implemented with the months to meet the irrigation needs of the Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs). financial support leveraged from various rural communities. The fertile soils of the In January 2019, a training on wetlands development schemes. floodplains and availability of freshwater management was conducted for key Panchayat enables communities to sustain livelihoods functionaries and task force members. Building capacity for community led water based on agriculture and fisheries, and security planning in Bhola supplemented by cultivation of wetland plants The results of the mapping exercise and risk Wetlands International South Asia in such as fox nuts. assessments were shared with the district collaboration with DORP (Development administration and with the Bihar State Organisation of the Rural Poor), a Wetlands of Saharsa have deteriorated over Disaster Management Authority. Proactive development NGO has undertaken a time due to reduced connectivity with the river engagement with district administration led to systematic water security planning process to

14 ensure safe water for sustainable WASH in In this backdrop, conjunctive use of surface Bhola Sadar Upazila, a sub-district of Bhola, water and groundwater for sustainable WASH the largest Island of Bangladesh situated at the is identified as an advocacy agenda. mouth of Meghna River. The work is done under the aegis of Watershed partnership During this year a baseline assessment was programme which aims at empowering citizens undertaken to develop a model water security to lobby and advocacy at local level for plan for Veduria Union, one of the 13 Unions sustainable WASH services. of Bhola Sadar to ensure:

The mainstay of livelihood of Bhola is • Water for drinking and human wellbeing is agriculture which was initially dependent on available on a sustainable basis. plentiful of freshwater available in the • Healthy wetlands support water, food and northern and central part of the island. The climate security and sustain livelihoods. wetlands, locally known as pukhur (ponds) and • Sufficient water is available to support khal (natural channels) provided the means for agriculture, fisheries and other economic storing freshwater, primarily from rainfall activities. which is used for various human and • Resiliency of communities to water related CSOs of Bhola learning how to conduct water quality test ecological usages. Post-1970s, as technologies to hazards such as floods and storm surges. tap deep water aquifers became available with A water security plan was drafted for Veduria the government agencies, the significance of The process involved building capacity of the Union which addresses key water risks using wetlands in water security reduced. Unplanned local CSOs and community and developing a wetland solutions. The plan was endorsed by expansion of WASH infrastructure led to knowledgebase to implement sustainable Veduria Union Parishad which committed wetlands being highly polluted. The depth at practices to ensure wetland conservation for allocate budget and implement the various which water for drinking and domestic use is sustainable WASH and water security. CSOs interventions listed. The scheme of water tapped is presently in excess of 1,000 feet. and community members were trained to map security planning process was upscaled to all 13 the wetlands in Veduria union and record the unions of Bhola Sadar Upazila and Ramgati The aquifer that runs from north of values and threats associated with them. A Upazila of the Noakhali sub district. Bangladesh to south east of Bangladesh serves training workshop co-conducted by Wetlands approximately 60 million people. With International South Asia, Akvo and DORP Over the next year the program aims at drawdown surpassing the recharge capacity of introduced the CSOs to water quality assessing finalizing the water security plan for Veduria groundwater by exceedingly high rates, the of pukhur and groundwater in Veduria to Union and implement the actions proposed. declining water table threatens the enable local CSOs and community monitor The programme aims to achieve built capacity renewability of the aquifer leading to serious key parameters to understand the status and of CSOs and communities at Bhola to uptake issues of water mediated risks to Bhola and health of their water sources. similar process of ensuring water security to other parts of the country like Dhaka.

15 mediate water risks to other Unions and Bhola water source for irrigation and drinking water Embedding wetlands in water security and Sadar and beyond. has dipped in the region. However, as the development planning in Tampara, Odisha extremes events such a prolonged drought are and Debkhal Chaur, Bihar Rejuvenating wetlands for water resilience becoming more frequent, the value of wetlands Tampara, a coastal wetland in Odisha and in Kachchh, Gujarat in ensuring water resilience is being realized. Debkhal, a marsh in Bihar are two pilot sites Wetlands International South Asia with its In 2019, a baseline assessment was carried out wherein Wetlands International South Asia is partner, Unnati, is working on rejuvenating to understand current condition of wetlands, working with local partners Gram Utthan, wetlands to build water resilience in Bhachau their management and ownership, major Netcoast and Nidan to link wetlands Block of Kachchh District of Gujarat. trends in last two decades, and threats. The conservation with planning for water, participatory assessment was also an sanitation and health (WASH). The work is The block inhabited by 70 villages is opportunity for the communities to reflect on supported under Watershed India programme. sandwiched between Greater Rann (desert) of the relevance of wetlands. In November 2019, Kachchh (the largest saline wetland in India) two rounds of training workshops were The detailed survey of WASH status and in the north, Banni grasslands on the west, the conducted for the Panchayat functionaries and participatory groundwater mapping in the Little Rann of Kachchh in the south east and local government officials on preparation of basin of Tampara was brought to fruition in the inter tidal flats of Gulf Kachchh in the Gram Panchayat Development Plans, and the form of village level water security plans south. The importance of coastal wetlands such opportunities for linking wetlands rejuvenation being finalized and placed for adoption in as mangroves, intertidal mudflats remains within these plans. Using the results from the respective Gram Sabha meetings. A beginning immensely for the livelihoods of the survey, 13 wetlands were prioritized and was made this year, with the water security communities, producing 30% of country inland actions identified for their rejuvenation (such plan of Kanamana Panchayat being adopted in salt and export of ginger prawn. The region by as cleaning inlets and outlets, strengthening the Gram Sabha held on 15 August 2019. its inherent nature undergoes a prolonged dry embankments, clearing solid waste and spell. The freshwater wetlands (in the form of revegetating the catchments with native Capacitated communities are increasingly village ponds, earthen dams, stepwells) ensure species). These activities were embedded within holding service providers responsible for water security, adequately capturing and the 10 Gram Panchayat Development Plans. quality of water supplied through the water recharging ground water during the dry spells. In Kathankot Gram Panchayat, work was points. This was the case in Tikria Berhampur The livelihood systems in the region are initiated with Rs. 4.8 million received by the wherein the communities now demand regular primarily livestock and agriculture based with Panchayat for implementing the interventions. testing of their water sources for fluoride and high seasonal migration to escape the vagaries Wetland restoration in Kathankot will support chloride contamination, when high levels were of extreme weather. drinking water to five Gram Panchayat. detected in the surveys of dugwells conducted under the project in 2018. Similarly, With the advent of diesel pumps in the 70s, A five-day awareness campaign was also communities of Panchayat Bhagwanpur spread of which has been promoted by energy organized in Bhachau in December, 2019, Kamla, Samastipur asked for realignment of subsidies, and supply of Narmada Canal water which reached out to 900 hundred including village drainage lines by using drainage maps since 2001, the relevance of wetlands as a 200 women and 500 children. prepared under the project in 2018.

16 The detailed geohydrological assessments in the basins of Tampara and Debkhal have brought out the crucial role of wetlands in ensuring surface and ground water availability, and in the case of former, preventing salinity ingress. The data has been used to identify interventions within the catchments to ensure that these wetlands continue to function. The interventions are mapped with Gram Panchayat Development Plans, and once approved will be implemented with funds leveraged from rural development schemes. The partners will continue to provide handholding support to the Panchayati Raj Institutions in implementing these interventions.

Communities coming together to remove water hyacinth and clear inlets of Harishankhini Jheel in Saharsa

WISA staff training Forest Department officials on wetlands assessment at a wetland in Sarnath Deer Park, Varanasi 18 Strengthening wetlands management

Wetlands International South Asia continued implementing the programme. In 100 days, the Highlights to work with the MoEFCC and State programme covered 130 wetlands, wherein Wetlands Authorities to strengthen wetlands baseline information was compiled;  As knowledge partner of the MoEFCC, supported management. biodiversity, ecosystem services and threats roll-out of 100 wetlands programme under 169 assessed and framework management plans transformative ideas of Government of India Support to National Wetlands Programme prepared. Thirty-three wetlands, which had  Conducted 10 technical workshops on wetlands In August 2019, the MoEFCC launched the high threat and low ecosystem health scores have been identified by the MoEFCC for assessment for frontline staff 100 wetlands rejuvenation as one of the transformative ideas of the government rejuvenation on a priority. The programme  Developed a toolkit on Wetlands Inventory, towards making the country water secure. has since been rolled out in all districts of the Assessment and Monitoring The initiative is structured on a four-pronged country, engaging a wider network of approach, which includes creation of baseline knowledge partners. We have continued Workstreams information, constitution of citizen networks, providing support to implementation of the Healthy wetlands nature, Vibrant coasts and deltas, ecosystem health assessment and formulation initiative. Replenished water stores from mountain to sea of integrated management plans will be adopted for the initiative. Wetlands Conserving floodplain wetlands of river Partners International South Asia, as a knowledge Ganga in Uttar Pradesh Uttar Pradesh State Wetlands Authority, Delhi State partner to the initiative, worked closely on River Ganga flows through 27 Districts of Wetlands Authority, Kerala State Wetlands Authority, developing the concept and providing Uttar Pradesh covering a distance of 1140km at Bihar State Wetlands Authority handholding support to state governments in its entry point at Kotwali in Bijnor District

19 and exit at Dokti in Ghazipur District. The Tool for Wetland Inventory, Assessment and conducted an orientation programme on floodplain wetlands flanking the main channel Monitoring November 22, 2019 for the various line provide an ecological and hydrological Systematic inventory, assessment and departments and agencies on conducting continuum rendering vital ecosystem services monitoring of wetlands is crucial for designing baseline assessments of wetlands and and biodiversity habitats. Effective effective management interventions. Under the formulation of integrated management plans. management of these wetlands is crucial for IKI project, Wetlands International South Asia Assistance has also been provided to achieving river integrity, and food and water and GIZ-India, with support of experts and finalization of brief documents on wetlands – security for the dependent communities. wetlands managers, developed a tool for being prepared in compliance with the wetlands inventory, assessment and Wetlands (Conservation and Management) In 2019, in collaboration with Uttar Pradesh monitoring. Rules, 2017. The organization will continue State Wetlands Authority and financial support working with the Delhi State Wetlands of National Mission on Clean Ganga, Wetlands Parameters which needed to be inventoried, Authority and the Delhi Development International South Asia launched a one-year assessed and monitored for different wetland Authority for rejuvenation of three wetlands project on assessment of floodplain wetlands features (extent, catchment, hydrology, prioritized by the state government. and designing management interventions biodiversity and ecosystem services, livelihoods, which would rejuvenate wetland ecosystem and institutions and governance) were The Uttar Pradesh State Wetlands Authority health and benefit river flows. The project identified in an expert consultation meeting has enlisted Wetlands International South Asia entails development of functional inventory of held in July 2019. The parameters were as its knowledge partner to support design and floodplain wetlands of River Ganga, an further filtered in terms of their relevance for implementation of wetland related ecosystem services assessment, and formulation integrated management, practicality, cost- programmes of the state. of framework management plans for effectiveness, time and resource availability. prioritized wetlands. For each essential parameter, indicators have Engagement with Bihar State Wetlands been identified, alongwith key guiding Authority and State Wetlands Authority Kerala In February-March 2020, four field training questions and additional references. The tool was continued during the year, with focus on workshops for frontline state forest department was launched at a side-event at the CMS CoP implementation of management action plans officials were held at Meerut, Prayagraj, 13 meeting held in February 2020. prepared by Wetlands International South Asia Varanasi and Badaun for collecting baseline in previous years. information on wetlands. Support to states At the request of Delhi State Wetlands Authority, Wetlands International South Asia

20 21 An inventory of wetland biota of 27 Ramsar sites collated by Wetlands International World Wetlands Day poster on the theme ‘Life Thrives in Wetlands” South Asia

Wetlands International South Asia assisted Uttar Pradesh State Wetlands Authority in preparation of Ramsar Site designation proposal for 6 wetlands (Photo of Sandi in Hardoi District) 22 Engagement with Conventions and Global Platforms

Wetlands International South Asia was 2020, in which we were represented by the Highlights

designated as the NGO Focal Point for Ramsar Director. A compilation of factsheets on Indian  Designated as Ramsar CEPA NGO Focal Point of the Convention by the Ministry of Environment, Ramsar Sites, jointly developed by the MoEFCC Forest and Climate Change. In this role, the knowledge partners was released at the  Supported designation of 6 Ramsar Sites organization is expected to work with the occasion. The proposal to develop a South Asia MoEFCC to support communication and Ramsar Regional Initiative was discussed at  Contributed to National Action Plan for outreach related to wetlands and the meeting, so that wetlands managers could implementation of CAF implementation of Convention in the country. exchange best practices and lessons, as well  Held sessions on wetlands at International develop capacity for implementing Ramsar Conference of Wetlands and Flyways We assisted the Uttar Pradesh State Wetlands Convention commitments.  Pitched for recognition of role of wetlands as Authority (UPSWA) in preparation of Ramsar ecosystem-based DRR at GPDRR Site Designation proposals for 6 wetlands We continued to engage with state (Nawabganj, Saman, Sarsai Nawar, Sandi, governments in ensuring that the designated Workstreams Samaspur and Parvati Arga). These wetlands Ramsar Sites are managed on the basis of wise Vibrant coasts and deltas, Replenished water stores from were formally designated on February 2, 2020, use plans. At the request of East Kolkata mountain to sea increasing the number of Ramsar Sites in the Wetlands Management Authority, we have

Partners country to 37. taken up updation of the management plan for Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; East Kolkata Wetlands for 2020-2025, which A meeting of knowledge partners of the will be completed by September 2020. Uttar Pradesh State Wetlands Authority MoEFCC with the Ramsar Secretary General, Ms Martha Urrego was held on February 16,

23 Convention on Migratory Species for scientists, conservationists, managers, and At close, the panel concluded that integrated Wetlands International South Asia was students to share information and assess the management of wetlands would require greater included by the MoEFCC in the drafting current status of the wetlands and migratory inter-sectoral collaboration and hybrid committee of the National Action Plan for waterbirds occurring along the Asian flyways, approaches, which cater for societal well-being Conservation of Migratory Species in the namely African-Eurasian Flyway, East Asian- while not compromising the ecosystem services Central Asian Flyway. The action plan was Australasian Flyway, and especially the Central and biodiversity values of these fragile launched by the MoEFCC in December 2018, Asian Flyway. ecosystems. and included within the commitments conveyed by the Government of India at the In order to bring focus on wetland Global Platform on Disaster Risk Reduction 13th meeting of the Conference of Parties of management issues, a specific side-event on The Global Platform for Disaster Risk the Convention on Migratory Species held ‘integrated management of wetlands: Reduction is a biennial multi-stakeholder during February 15-22, 2020 at Gandhinagar, opportunities and challenges’ was organized on forum established by the UN General Gujarat. November 21, 2019. Setting the scene, Dr Assembly to review progress, share knowledge Sidharth Kaul (President, Wetlands and discuss the latest developments and trends We took active part in the deliberations on International South Asia) marked the journey in reducing disaster risk. The platform is a Central Asian Flyway which were concluded at of establishing a national wetlands programme, critical component of the monitoring and the Conference of Parties Meeting in the form and the challenges thereof. Dr Asad Rahmani implementation process of the Sendai of a specific resolution wherein India will be (Member, Governing Body, Wetlands Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015- working with the flyway range countries to International South Asia) reflected on several 2030). implement the commitments under the Action flawed assumptions made in wetlands Plan. Post CoP, we are working with Wildlife management in the country, leading to The May 2019 meeting of the Platform held at Institute of India and Bombay Natural History deleterious impacts. Key amongst those was Geneva, Switzerland had a focus on building Society in developing an institutional structure altering wetlands natural regimes to ensure resilience to disaster risks – a theme which is for hosting the Central Asian Flyway water permanence, and preventing beneficial supported by Partners for Resilience Strategic Secretariat in India. hydrological shocks due to periodic drying. Mr Partnership implemented in India amongst 9 Suresh Babu (Director, River and Wetlands countries. Mr Dushyant Mohil (Programme International Conference on Wetlands and Programme, WWF-India) discussed several Manager, Partners of Resilience) represented Migratory Birds of the Asian Flyway case studies wherein water security the India programme alongwith colleagues Wetlands International South Asia actively interventions by not recognizing the role of from Wetlands International network at the participated in the international conference on natural wetlands, had actually made the platform and took part in side events organized wetlands and migratory waterbirds of the Asian landscape water insecure. Dr Ritesh Kumar on ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction. Flyways organized by the Bombay Natural (Director, Wetlands International South Asia Key lessons of our programs from Kerala and History Society during November 18-22, 2019 brought to fore the challenges in bridging Odisha were shared to highlight the urgency to at Lonavala, Maharashtra. The conference languages while conveying the value of implement and upscale successful examples intended to provide a common meeting ground wetlands for societal well-being. such as Building with Nature and integrate

24 ecosystems in DRR strategies and plans at national level. The Chair’s concluding summary from GPDRR highlighted the need for integrating ecosystems and nature-based solutions in the national strategies and plans for DRR and resilience building.

Dr Sidharth Kaul (President, Wetlands International South Asia) speaking at side event on “Integrated Management of Wetlands: Opportunities and Challenges” at International Conference on Wetlands and Migratory Birds of the Asian Flyway

25 26 Mobilizing citizen science for waterbirds

The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC), a Launch of 2006-2015 Synthesis Report Highlights citizen-science initiative on waterbirds is part Wetlands International South Asia launched of the global International Waterbird the Asian Waterbird Census 2006-2015  Launched the AWC 2006-2015 synthesis report Census (IWC). Initiated in 1987, the census Synthesis Report on 18 February 2020 at the  Contributed to State of Indian Birds Assessment is the longest running citizen-science 13th Conference of Parties meeting of the report programme providing information on status Convention on Migratory Species.  AWC volunteers conducted waterbird census at 550+ of waterbirds and wetlands. Information wetlands collected in the census is used to develop During 2006-2015, over 1400 volunteers global and flyway scale population estimates, conducted waterbird counts at 1409 wetlands of Workstreams and is used as a conservation tool, especially 23 States and 3 Union Territories in India. The Healthy wetlands nature for designating and managing wetlands of Asian Waterbird Census recorded presence of international importance under Ramsar 170 waterbird species (85% of total waterbird Partners Convention and flyway networks. The AWC species in India), including 142 migratory BNHS, Nature Conservation Foundation, AWC State is jointly coordinated in India by Wetlands species (84% of total migratory waterbird Coordinators and Volunteer network International South Asia and Bombay species in the country) from 1409 wetlands Natural History Society, and supported by (0.2% of the total number of wetlands in the Wetlands International Global Office. Sixty- country). thousand wetland sites have been counted in 184 countries since the IWC started in 1967.

27 Two hundred seventy-two wetlands support 1% species, sighted during 1987-2005 period (from million individuals of 162 waterbirds species. or more of the bio-geographic population of at Assam and Rajasthan respectively) have not The analysis shows Demoiselle Crane, least one species of waterbird and qualify as been reported by the AWC network in the Common Coot, Lesser Whistling Duck and Wetlands of International Importance under current census. Little Stint to be most abundant waterbird criterion 6 of Ramsar Convention. species in India during 2019 winter counts. The population of one in every four waterbird The list also included thirty threatened species Sixty-five wetlands supported 20,000 or more species recorded in the census, for which trends such as Black-bellied Tern, Common waterbirds during at least one year of the in the Central Asian Flyway are known, is Pochard, Curlew Sandpiper and others. assessment period. These sites qualify for declining. Out of thirty-three, 20 Threatened Largest waterbird congregations were noted in designation as Wetlands of International and Near Threatened waterbird species Mokarsagar Wetland Complex in Gujarat; Importance under criterion 5 of Ramsar recorded during the census have a declining Pulicat Lagoon in Andhra Pradesh; Harike Convention. population trend. Reviews of population Wildlife sanctuary in Punjab and Pong dam in estimates and population trends of waterbirds, Himachal Pradesh. Five Ramsar sites which were counted at least especially migratory waterbirds using the five times during 2006-2015, the population of Central Asian Flyway, needs urgent attention State of Indian Birds Report Consortium Cranes, Gulls, Terns and Indian Skimmer as this information is outdated or is of poor Wetlands International South Asia partnered reported declining numbers especially for quality. with Nature Conservation Foundation led designating and managing wetlands of consortium of 10 organisations to produce ‘The international importance under Ramsar These results highlight critically important State of India’s Birds report’ - the first Convention and providing input to AEWA, information on the status of waterbirds and comprehensive assessment of the distribution EAAFP and CMS. wetlands for the government and other range, trends in abundance, and conservation stakeholders to strengthen management action status for most of the bird species that One in every five waterbird species recorded in at internationally and nationally important regularly occur in India. the census, for which population status is wetlands. Additionally, it informs prioritization known, is globally threatened as per the IUCN of sites for designation of new Ramsar sites Over 10 million observations on occurrence of Red List of Threatened Species. Of these, three and under the Western/Central Asian Site 867 species of birds as reported by over 15,000 are Critically Endangered (Baer’s Pochard, Network for Siberian Cranes and Other birdwatchers in the eBird-India platform were Sociable Lapwing and Spoon-billed Sandpiper), Waterbirds of the Convention on Migratory analysed to assess conservation status of three Endangered (Black-bellied Tern, Great Species. species. Trends from long-term and current Knot and Greater Adjutant), and eight changes in reporting rates indicate that 52% of Vulnerable (Andaman Teal, Common Pochard, Census coverage for 2019 Indian avifauna show declining trends with Dalmatian Pelican, Indian Skimmer, Lesser In 2019, more than 550 sites were reported for 101 species classified as ‘Species of High Adjutant, Marbled Teal, Sarus Crane and Asian Waterbird Census in India, through Conservation Concern’. These largely include Woolly-necked Stork). White-bellied Heron AWC (228) and eBird (nearly 350) raptors of open and semi-arid grasslands, and Siberian Crane, two Critically Endangered submissions. These sites hosted more than 0.1 migratory shorebirds, and habitat specialists -

28 particularly the Western Ghats endemics. On the other hand, species like Indian Peafowl, Glossy Ibis, and Ashy Prinia show increasing population trend across the country, while House Sparrow, much contrary to popular belief, seems to be more or less stable in the vast rural landscape of the country, registering a marked decline only in select metros. The report was formally released on February 17, 2020 by Mr C.K. Mishra, Secretary, MoEFCC at the 13th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS- COP13) held at Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

Strengthening AWC network Wetlands International South Asia, in collaboration with the Bombay Natural History Society and the Wetlands International Global Office, convened Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) State Coordinators meeting at Lonavala, Maharashtra during November 23- 24, 2019. The meeting aimed at reviewing of work done till date and identifying measures required for improvising processes of data collection, analysis & management. The meeting saw participation of coordinators from 14 states.

Mr D S Dadwal, Divisional Forest Officer, WL Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh Forest Department and Dr Rudraprasad Das, Member of the Executive Committee, Prakriti Mr Rakesh Jagenia, DIG (Forests), MoEFCC and Dr Taej Mundkur (International Waterbird Census Samsad have been appointed as new AWC Coordinator, Wetlands International) launching the AWC Synthesis Report at CMS COP 13 State Coordinators for Himachal Pradesh and West Bengal respectively.

Wetlands International South Asia Society General Body Members alongwith Guests of Honor at World Wetlands Day event 30 Celebrating World Wetlands Day 2020

To mark World Wetlands Day (Feb 2), highlighted the worsening water crisis as quality and transformation due to various Wetlands International South Asia organized a wetlands had been reclaimed and encroached anthropogenic interventions. Dr. Anupam public seminar on “Wetlands and Biodiversity” upon in major Indian cities. Joshi (Senior Environment Specialist, the at India International Centre, New Delhi. World Bank) emphasized on bridging policy Pathways and policy directions for conserving A panel discussion on pathways for gaps and establishing a development connect wetlands biodiversity and mainstreaming with conservation of wetlands biological diversity for the environment sector. developmental planning were discussed at the was also held. Dr Ritesh Kumar (Director, seminar. The event was attended by 69 Wetlands International South Asia) presented The panel and the participants appreciated the participants from central government agencies, an overview of the current measures taken by efforts made by Wetlands International South International organizations, academia, civil the Government of India for wetlands Asia in promoting the cause of wetlands society, media and experts. conservation, especially in compliance with the conservation and urged the organization to commitments under Ramsar Convention, Yet, take practical and tangible steps to improve the Dr Sidharth Kaul (President, Wetlands the continuing loss and degradation of natural status of wetlands by providing management International South Asia) delivered the wetlands in the country, indicated a disjoint oriented knowledgebase, building capacity of welcome address and introduced the theme of between the cause of conservation and the stakeholders and working for behavioural the World Wetlands Day and the work being current development paradigm. Dr Kumar change. done by the organization to conserve and urged that wetlands loss is not seen as an sustainably manage wetlands. The Chief Guest, esoteric cause of conserving species, but as a Mr J.C. Kala (Former Secretary, Government development crisis, given the increasing water, of India) released the poster made by Wetlands food and climate insecurity due to wetlands International South Asia on the World loss. Wetlands Day theme ‘Life thrives in wetlands’, and delivered the keynote address, calling for Mr. Hem Pande (Formerly Secretary, Ministry proactive and affirmative actions for of Consumer Affairs and Special Secretary, conservation of wetlands for sustainable Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate development. called for a middle path in wetland conservation as strict nature conservation is Mr Suresh Prabhu, Hon’ble Member of not viable in most circumstances. Dr. Asad Parliament, Rajya Sabha and Government of Rahmani (Member, Governing Body, Wetlands India G7 and G20 Sherpa conveyed a poignant International South Asia and Formerly message to urgently step up action for wetlands Director Bombay Natural History Society) conservation. In his video message, Mr Prabhu called for attention to degrading wetland Mr Suresh Prabhu, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha connecting to the World Wetlands Day 31 event via video message

12th Annual General Body Meeting in progress Governance

Wetlands International South Asia is governed financial statements for the period April 2018 International South Asia office. Key decisions under a three-tier structure. At the apex is the – March 2019 were adopted at the meeting. at the meeting were to develop a partnerships General Body which provides strategic and networking strategy and conclude the direction, guides policy making of the Meeting with Wetlands International Global Network Partnership Agreement organization and elects the President. The Supervisory Council between Wetlands International Foundation overall management of the Society is vested in The Wetlands International Supervisory and South Asia Society. the Governing Body, which also appoints the Council met in India during November 27-28, Director. The Office Bearers (President, Vice 2019 at Cochin to review and approve the The fifteenth meeting of the Governing Body President, Treasurer, and Secretary) maintain Global strategic intent. A joint meeting of was held on September 20, 2019 wherein the an oversight of implementation of various Wetlands International South Asia Governing annual report and audited financial statements decisions of the Society. Director serves as the Body and Wetlands International Supervisory were approved for presentation at the Annual head of Wetlands International South Asia Council was held on November 27, 2019 to General Meeting. Office and ex-office Secretary to the Society. discuss the programme development in South Asia region and opportunities for scaling up Meeting of Office Bearers Annual General Body Meeting action. A field visit to Poovur wetlands and The Office Bearers met seven times during The 12th Annual Meeting of the General Body developments around wetlands of Cochin was April 2019 – March 2020 to assess was held on September 23, 2019 at Wetlands also conducted. implementation of decisions taken in various International South Asia office, and attended meetings of the Society, review technical by 13 members (and 5 requests for leave of Meetings of the Governing Body programmes and prepare agenda for the absence). The annual report and audited The fourteenth meeting of the Governing Body meetings of Governing Body and General was held on August 12, 2019 at Wetlands Body.

33 Financial Overview and Audited Statements

Wetlands International South Asia implements staff salary. A surplus of Rs.13.98 million was its various activities through funds generated accrued during the year. from projects funded by international and national donor agencies. During April 2019 – In comparison with the previous financial March 2020, the total income accrued was Rs. year, the project incomes increased by 12%. 49.79 million. This included Rs. 43.96 million Overall, the expenses made under projects project funds received from 4 donor agencies, were fully covered by project incomes. The and the balance, Rs. 5.83 million as interest overheads were also well covered by the earned on the reserves. incomes accrued under staff time.

The total expenditure incurred during the year The total reserves at the end of the financial towards various programmatic activities was year stood at Rs. 70.77 million, which is an Rs.35.81 million. Direct overheads stood at Rs. increase of Rs. 16.13 million over the last year. 3.33 million, forming 9.30% of total The interest income from reserves now expenditure. Project expenses were Rs.22.42 matches up with nearly 60% of the salary costs. million, including Rs.10.06 million towards

35 Balance Sheet Income and Expenditure Statement

36 Outlook 2020 and beyond

Setting South Asia Regional Priorities and Establishing South Asia Platform for The projects have provided key insights on Targets for 2020-2030 Wetlands Managers pathways for integrating wetlands in local In 2020, the Wetlands International network The work on establishment of South Asia development agendas related to WASH and will adopt the Global Strategic Intent for 2020- wetlands managers’ platform will be pursued DRR. Lessons and best practices from project 2030, titled ‘Wetlands for a Safer World’. further. The second regional workshop will be implementation will be synthesized and used a Wetlands International South Asia will revise held with financial support of Ramsar basis for developing a programme on the South Asia regional strategy and define Regional Center East Asia. community-led wetlands management. regional priorities and targets accordingly. The strategy will take into account national Silver Jubilee celebrations Capacity development of wetlands managers priorities and needs of wetlands conservation 2021 will be the silver jubilee year of In 2020, a five-year Global Environment in South Asia. As a part of strategy establishment of Wetlands International South Facility funded project on ‘Integrated development process, scanning of current Asia office. Events will be held throughout the Management of Wetlands Biodiversity and scenario, issues, and key intervention priorities year to mark the important occasion, and also Ecosystem Services’ will be launched. The for Wetlands International South Asia has strengthen existing partnerships, and build project will provide substantive opportunities already been initiated on six topics – new ones. for systematic capacity development on integrating wetlands in water management, integrated management of wetlands in the wetlands and climate change, wetlands and Establishing a community led wetlands country by engaging diverse stakeholders. Emphasis will be laid on instituting a training urbanization, Himalayan wetlands, Conserving management programme wetlands biological diversity and a national module on wetlands within the curriculum of During 2020, the two long-term Strategic wetlands policy. Indian Forest Service Probationers at Indira Partnership Projects funded by the Gandhi National Forest Academy. Netherlands Government will draw to a close.

37 Knowledge products on key wetlands issues diversity of skills, gender and expertise. A desired experience and functions for each such as wetlands and climate change, and membership strategy for diversifying presence position. The staff strength will be further wetlands governance will be produced. Specific and increasing representativeness of increased on the basis of human resources attention will be placed on improving organization’s voice will be formulated and plan to enable effective implementation of communication and outreach through various implemented. These changes will be crucial in organization’s strategy. Measures for improving channels. strengthening governance and making it more project management processes and managing strategic in nature. human resources will also be implemented as Expanding Governing Body membership part of organizational development plan. The Governing Body, in which the Organizational Development management of Wetlands International South A human resources development plan has also Asia is vested, will be expanded, bringing in been developed in 2019, defining skill-sets,

38 Wetlands International South Asia Society Members

Dr Sidharth Kaul Dr Asad Rahmani Mr. J. C Kala Former Advisor (Wetlands), Ministry of Former Director, Bombay Natural History Advisor, Amity Institute of Global Warming Environment and Forests, Government of Society, Mumbai (Member, Governing Body) and Ecological Studies India (President) Former Secretary, Ministry of Environment Prof. Erinjery J. James and Forests, Government of India Dr Ajit K. Pattnaik Pro-Vice Chancellor, Karunya Institute of Former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Technology and Science, Coimbatore, Tamil Mr. Sudhir K. Pande Government of Odisha (Vice President) Nadu (Member, Governing Body) Former Director General (Forests), Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of Prof. J. K Garg Ms. Jane Madgwick India Senior Fellow, TERI School of Advanced Chief Executive Officer, Wetlands Sciences New Delhi (Honorary Treasurer) International Global office, The Netherlands Dr N. S Tiwana (Member, Governing Body) Former Chairman, Central Pollution Control Dr C. K. Varshney Board, Government of India Professor Emeritus, Environmental Sciences, Dr Ashok K. Kundra Jawaharlal Nehru University and Former Secretary to the Ministry of Mines and Prof. B. B Dhar Distinguished Adjunct Professor, AIT, Special Secretary, Ministry of Environment Former Director, Central Institute for Mining Bangkok (Member, Governing Body) and Forests, Government of India Research, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research

39 Prof. Kailash C. Malhotra Dr K. K Vass Dr N. B Narasimha Prasad Professor Emeritus, Indian Statistical Institute, Former Director, Central Inland Fisheries Former Executive Director, Centre for Water Kolkata, West Bengal Research Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal Resources Development and Management, Kozikode, Kerala Prof. M. N Murty Mr. Thokchom Manihar Former Director, Institute of Economic Former Project Director, Loktak Development Ms. Archana Chatterjee Growth, New Delhi Authority, Manipur Programme Manager, IUCN – India, New Delhi Dr J. S Samra Dr J. S Samant Former Chief Executive, National Rainfed Trustee, Development Research Awareness and Mr. V. S. R Krishna Area Authority, Planning Commission, Action Institution, Kolhapur, Maharashtra Advocate, Supreme Court of India, New Delhi Government of India Dr Lalitha Vijayan Dr Ritesh Kumar Prof. K. V Jayakumar Honorary Director, Salim Ali Foundation, Director, Wetlands International South Asia Professor and Dean, Civil Engineering Thrissur, Kerala (Secretary, ex-officio) Department, National Institute of Technology, Warangal, Andhra Pradesh

40 Publications

Newsletters An Inventory, Assessment and Monitoring Wetlands Solutions for WASH and Water Framework for Indian Wetlands (February Sarovar Security: Setting priorities for Veduria 2020). Published with GIZ-India under Indo- Volume V Union, Bangladesh (November 2019) German Bilateral Cooperation Project – (December Wetlands Management for Biodiversity and 2019) Special An evaluation of ecological character, Climate Protection Issue on Wetlands threats and management needs: Chandertal, Ramsar Sites of India: Factsheets (February and Climate Change Himachal Pradesh (December 2019) 2020). Published by Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change Sarovar Volume VI An evaluation of ecological character, threats (February 2020) World and management needs: Gurudongmar, Sikkim Book Chapter Wetlands Day Issue on (December 2019) Wetlands and Biodiversity Wetlands as Buffers for Water-Mediated Asian Waterbird Census: Results for Disaster Risks: Policy and Programming Coordinated January Counts for India (2006- Technical Reports Opportunities in India by Ritesh Kumar, 2015) (February 2020) Ridhi Saluja and Dushyant Mohil (2020) in Shalini Dhyani et al (Ed). Nature-based Wetlands of Upper Teesta-Kanchendzonga Contributed publications Landscape: A Review of Current Knowledge Solutions for Resilient Ecosystems and (May 2019). Societies. Springer, Singapore State of Indian Birds (2020). Range, Trends Wetlands, WASH and Water Security, A case and Conservation Status. Published by State of study of Debkhal Chaur Basin, Bihar (October Indian Birds Partnership

2019)

41 Wetlands International South Asia Office

Dr Ritesh Kumar, Director

Dr Asghar Nawab, Programme Head (Aquatic Ecology)

Mr. M. L Khan, Administration and Finance Officer

Mr. Dushyant Singh Mohil, Programme Manager – Partners for Resilience

Ms. Kalpana Ambastha, Technical Officer - WASH Programme

Dr Ridhi Saluja, Technical Officer - Ecology

Ms. Nehha Sharma, Technical Officer –Socioeconomics

Mr. Dhruv Verma, Technical Officer- Ecology

Mr. Harsh Ganapathi, Technical Officer - Water Management

Mr. Kamal Dalakoti, Jr. Technical Officer

Mr. Avinash Kumar Saroj, Accountant

Mr. Rakesh Verma, Office Assistant

Mr. Mahendra Kumar, Office Assistant

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