Operation Olivia Safeguards Record 6.98 Lakh Olive Ridley Turtles Amidst Fisher-Turtle Conflicts
The Indian Coast Guard's (ICG) annual initiative, Operation Olivia, has achieved a significant milestone by protecting over 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles during the 2025 nesting season in Odisha. This accomplishment underscores the importance of coordinated conservation efforts in preserving marine biodiversity. Operation Olivia's 2025 mission in Odisha safeguarded over 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles through extensive surveillance and community collaboration, marking a significant achievement in marine conservation.
In February 2025, the Indian Coast Guard's (ICG) Operation Olivia achieved a significant milestone by protecting over 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles during their nesting season along Odisha's coastline. This annual initiative, running from November to May, focuses on ensuring the safety of these endangered marine creatures during their critical nesting period.
Operation Olivia's success is attributed to a multifaceted approach involving extensive surveillance and community engagement. The ICG conducted over 5,387 surface patrol sorties and 1,768 aerial surveillance missions, utilizing drones, fast patrol vessels, interceptor crafts, and Dornier aircraft to monitor nesting sites and enforce regulations. These efforts led to the detention of 366 vessels engaged in illegal fishing activities, thereby reducing threats to the turtle population.
A key component of the operation was the promotion of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) on fishing boats. These devices allow trapped turtles to escape from fishing nets, significantly decreasing mortality rates among the species. The ICG collaborated with local fishing communities and non-governmental organizations to encourage the adoption of TEDs and other sustainable fishing practices.
The Rushikulya river mouth in Ganjam district witnessed an unprecedented number of turtles, with 6.98 lakh individuals nesting during the season. This figure surpassed the previous record of 6.37 lakh recorded in 2023, highlighting the effectiveness of the conservation efforts. Gahirmatha beach, another major nesting site in Kendrapada district, annually hosts around 8 lakh turtles, further emphasizing the region's significance as a critical habitat for Olive Ridleys.
Conclusion:
The success of Operation Olivia in 2025 demonstrates the positive impact of coordinated conservation efforts on marine biodiversity. By combining rigorous surveillance, community involvement, and sustainable practices, the ICG has significantly contributed to the protection of Olive Ridley turtles in Odisha. Continued support and collaboration among stakeholders are essential to ensure the long-term survival of this endangered species.
Source: Outlook Business,
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