Environment and Soil Conservation Division of the Forest and Environment Department Gyalshing Celebrates World Wetlands Day At Khacheodpalri, The First And Only Ramsar Site of Sikkim
Gyalshing, February 2 (IPR):A celebratory function of the World Wetlands Day was held at the Khacheodpalri Wetland, the first and only Ramsar site of Sikkim, organised by the Environment and Soil Conservation Division of the Forest and Environment Department, Gyalshing District,today.
The sacred and highly revered Khacheodpalri Lake was officially recognised by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands as a wetland of international importance on February 2, 2025.
Mr Tshering T Bhutia Minister Tourism-Cum-Area MLA Yuksam-Tashiding graced the occasion as the Chief Guest accompanied by Mr Tenzing D Denzongpa District Collector Gyalshing ,Mr NB Limboo Advisor State Medical Plants Board, Mr Karma L Bhutia Chief Conservator of Forest, Mr SK Thatal Director Environment and Soil Conversion Division,Mr Tshering Pintso Bhutia Additional Director Forest & Environment Deptt and Mr Chandan Singh Limboo SDM Yuksam.
Minister Bhutia, in his address, underscored World Wetlands Day, an environmentally related celebration that reaffirms protection and love for wetlands, which are water ecosystems containing plant life and other organisms, bringing ecological health in abundance to all in the periphery.
Minister Bhutia mentioned that the day serves to highlight the influence and positive production that wetlands have had on the world and brings communities together for the benefit of Mother Nature by raising awareness of wetlands' significant role, not only for people but for all living beings.
Minister Bhutia advised youth to ensure comprehensive conservative measures are maintained and underscored the persistent efforts of the District Administration Gyalshing and concerned departments for the cause of holistic development and preservation of the recognised revered pilgrimage destination of the world.
Minister Bhutia advised stakeholders to inculcate an eco-friendly approach whilst working towards the development of the community assets and encouraged youth of the vicinity to uphold the bestowed recognition and gain from the extended opportunity.
Director, Environment and Soil Conservation Gyalshing Mr Thatal underlined on the inception of the United Nation Ramsar Convention on wetlands signed in Ramsar Iran on 1971 and mentioned about the parameters for the recognition of Khecheopalri as Wetland.
Major highlight of the occasion was, a formal ceremony to officially release Table-Top Calender with the theme 'Khacheodpalri Wetland' by the Chief guest and accompanied dignitaries. Mild steel pipe for prayer flag hoisting and gift hampers containing essential items were also handed over to the respective beneficiaries at the programme.
The celebration had participation of the DFO Environment and Soil Conversion Division, Forest Department Gyalshing Mr Narsing Rai, officers and officials of the engaged departments, Zilla Members, Panchayats, members of the Thingling Gram Panchayat and Khacheodpalri Gram Panchayat, revered monks of the Khecheopalri Monastery and devotees.
Report from DIO Gyalshing