Operation Olivia sets record for protecting 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles: Indian Coast Guard achieves yet another milestone

Indian Coast Guard (IGC)’s mission, Operation Olivia, has successfully set a bench mark of protecting over 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha.

 

Operation Olivia, which is held annually, from November to May, is a significant initiative by the ICG, to ensure safe nesting grounds for Olive Ridley sea turtles at Gahirmatha Beach and the surrounding coastal areas of Odisha. This area sees the arrival of over eight lakh turtles every year.

 

Due to the increasing threats of illegal fishing and habitat disruption, ICG has carried out over 5,387 surface patrol sorties and 1,768 aerial surveillance missions since its inception. An estimated count of 366 boats involved in illegal fishing have been apprehended, reasserting ICG's strong enforcement role in protecting marine life.

 

In addition to the surveillance, ICG has closely worked with local fishing communities by promoting the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) and partnering with NGOs through formal Memorandums of Understanding MoUs to support sustainable fishing practices and conservation education.

India