Centre Launches Action Plan For Protection Of Marine Turtles

New Delhi: The Central government on Thursday released an action plan for conservation of marine mega fauna and turtles.

Speaking at the virtual launch of ‘Marine Mega Fauna Stranding Guidelines’ and ‘National Marine Turtle Action Plan’ in New Delhi, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said both floral and faunal diversity including the marine biodiversity is the beauty of India and there is a need to conserve it with best possible action and interventions.

The document launched on the day contain ways and means to not only promote inter-sectoral action for conservation but also guide improved coordination amongst the government, civil society and all relevant stakeholders on the response to cases of stranding, entanglement, injury or mortality of marine mammals and also conservation of marine turtles, according to a release of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Those also highlight actions to be taken for handling stranded animals on shore, in sea or on a boat, management actions for improved coordination, reducing threats to marine species and their habitats, rehabilitation of degraded habitats, enhancing people’s participation, advance scientific research and exchange of information on marine mammals and marine turtles and their habitats.

India has rich marine biodiversity along a coastline of over 7,500 km. From colorful fish, sharks, including whale sharks, turtles and big mammals like whales, dolphins and dugongs to bright corals, marine habitats not only harbor diverse species but also provide resources essential for human wellbeing.

Millions of people depend on these resources ranging from maritime trade and transport, food, mineral resources, cultural traditions, spiritual values and inspiration that draws tourists from around the world.