Indian Coast Guard’s Operation Olivia Saves Record 6.98 Lakh Olive Ridley Turtles in Odisha!
In an impressive show of environmental stewardship, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has reported a record-breaking achievement during its annual mission, ‘Operation Olivia,’ aimed at protecting the endangered Olive Ridley turtles along the coast of Odisha. This year, the operation successfully safeguarded over 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth in February 2025, marking a significant milestone in marine conservation efforts.
This ongoing initiative, which runs annually from November to May, plays a crucial role in ensuring that Olive Ridley turtles have safe nesting grounds. The success at Rushikulya emphasizes the importance of effective management and intervention in conserving species that are heavily threatened by human activities.
The Importance of Operation Olivia
Operation Olivia, initiated and managed by the ICG, focuses on the protection of nesting sites, with Gahirmatha Beach being recognized as a primary hub for these turtles. The operation aims to coordinate extensive marine surveillance, conduct rigorous patrolling, and engage with local fishing communities to provide assistance in sustainable practices.
Impact and Achievements of the ICG
Since its inception, Operation Olivia has seen remarkable operational success. The ICG has executed over 5,387 surface patrol sorties and 1,768 aerial surveillance missions. This dedicated patrolling has led to a significant reduction in various threats to the turtles, including:
- Illegal fishing activities
- Habitat disruption
- Net entanglement issues
Moreover, throughout this period, the ICG apprehended 366 boats engaged in illegal fishing, underlining its robust enforcement role in marine life conservation.
Community Engagement and Sustainable Practices
Engagement with local fishing communities has been a priority for the ICG under Operation Olivia. The authorities have been proactive in promoting the use of Turtle Excluder Devices, which help minimize accidental catches of turtles in fishing nets. Collaborative efforts with various NGOs through formal Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) have also supported:
- Education and awareness initiatives about turtle conservation
- Promotion of sustainable fishing practices
The Larger Picture: Importance for Marine Ecosystems
The eastern coastline of India, particularly around Odisha, is a vital nesting area for Olive Ridley Turtles. Each year, approximately 800,000 turtles come to nest, making their survival crucial not only for biodiversity but also for the health of marine ecosystems. As these turtles face threats from illegal fishing, net entanglement, and habitat degradation, their reliance on the ICG’s vigilant enforcement and rescue operations has never been more critical.
The success of Operation Olivia serves as a strong reminder of the essential balance between conservation and community involvement. As threats to marine life continue to evolve, adaptive strategies will be necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of Olive Ridley turtles and their habitats.
In conclusion, the Indian Coast Guard’s Operation Olivia stands as a beacon of hope amid ongoing environmental challenges. With continued enforcement, community cooperation, and innovative conservation techniques, the future of Olive Ridley turtles in India looks brighter than ever. As we celebrate these achievements, it’s vital to recognize the importance of our collective responsibility in preserving our planet’s unique ecosystems.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
