New Delhi [India], May 19 (ANI): In a major boost to marine conservation, the Indian Coast Guard’s (ICG) annual mission ‘Operation Olivia’ has successfully protected a record of over 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles that nested at the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha during February 2025.
Operation Olivia, conducted annually from November to May, is a key initiative of the ICG aimed at ensuring safe nesting grounds for Olive Ridley turtles, particularly at Gahirmatha Beach and surrounding coastal areas of Odisha. These areas witness the arrival of over eight lakh turtles each year.
According to a Defence Ministry release, the record mass nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth is a testament to the ICG’s dedicated efforts in safeguarding this endangered species through rigorous patrolling, aerial surveillance, and active community engagement.
Since the inception of Operation Olivia, the ICG has conducted over 5,387 surface patrol sorties and 1,768 aerial surveillance missions. These efforts have significantly reduced threats such as illegal fishing and habitat disruption. During the ongoing operation, 366 boats involved in illegal fishing have been detained, reinforcing the ICG’s commitment to marine protection.
In addition to surveillance, the ICG has actively collaborated with local fishing communities, promoting the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) and working alongside NGOs through formal MoUs to encourage sustainable fishing practices and conservation education.
The milestone underscores the effectiveness of sustained conservation efforts and highlights the need for continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies to support long-term marine sustainability, the ICG stated.
India’s eastern coastline, particularly Gahirmatha Beach in Odisha, is a crucial nesting ground for Olive Ridley turtles. Every year, over 8 lakh turtles migrate to this region, facing threats from illegal fishing, net entanglement, and habitat degradation. The ICG’s vigilant enforcement and rescue operations are vital to ensuring the continued survival of these marine creatures. (ANI)
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