¨     Union Government has declared Kopra Reservoir as first Ramsar site of Chhattisgarh.

¨     Kopra Reservoir is located in Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh.

¨     Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the status reflects Chhattisgarh’s rich biodiversity and highlighted the area’s diverse bird habitats.

¨     The proposal seeking Ramsar status for Kopra Reservoir was submitted by Chhattisgarh government to the Centre last month.

¨     The reservoir includes both natural and man-made features and is important for regional water resources.

¨     It also supports irrigation needs and plays a vital role in biodiversity conservation.

¨     The recognition aligns with Chhattisgarh Anjor Vision 2047, which aims to secure Ramsar status for 20 wetlands by 2030.

¨     Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance designated under the Ramsar Convention.

¨     The Ramsar Convention's Secretariat is headquartered in Gland, Switzerland.