NGT praises Chhattisgarh’s ‘Wetland Mitra’ model

New Delhi | Desk: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has praised the "Wetland Mitra" initiative launched by the Chhattisgarh government for the conservation of wetlands, calling it an exemplary example for environmental protection. During a hearing on February 3, 2026, a bench comprising Justices Sheo Kumar Singh and Sudhir Kumar Chaturvedi stated that Chhattisgarh has not only completed the identification and demarcation of wetlands in its state but has also established an effective monitoring mechanism by involving local people as 'Wetland Mitras' (Wetland Friends).

The Tribunal also directed the governments of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan to consider implementing Chhattisgarh's successful model to ensure that accurate information about the actual condition of wetlands reaches the authorities directly, thereby curbing encroachment and pollution.

The NGT made these remarks while hearing a petition concerning increasing encroachment on water bodies and the discharge of untreated wastewater in Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh.

Referring to the Chhattisgarh model, the bench clarified that the 'Wetland Mitras' will act as the 'eyes' monitoring the wetlands, enabling immediate action in case of violations.

Taking a strict stance, the court ordered officials in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan to submit a report within two weeks on the status of conservation, demarcation, and pillar installation around water bodies.

It also warned that if untreated wastewater is discharged into ponds or wetlands, environmental compensation will be recovered from the concerned officials, and they will also face prosecution. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for March 12, 2026.

It is noteworthy that Chhattisgarh has adopted a highly proactive and scientific model for wetland conservation. Under this model, the state has successfully completed the demarcation of its approximately 35,534 wetlands and created a digital database for them. The most significant feature of this initiative is the 'Wetland Friends' campaign, which has mobilized over 18,000 local citizens as volunteers to create a grassroots monitoring system. These volunteers provide direct information to the administration regarding encroachment and pollution.

In addition, the state has issued specific 'health cards' for over 6,200 water bodies and has involved women in conservation leadership roles through programs like 'Women for Wetlands'.

Securing the status of the state's first 'Ramsar Site' for the Kopra reservoir in Bilaspur and ensuring the protection of migratory bird habitats are results of Chhattisgarh's commitment, which is now being viewed as a model at the national level. However, questions have been raised from time to time regarding the actual implementation of this model on the ground.