In a remarkable achievement for marine conservation, the Indian Coast Guard’s (ICG) annual mission, Operation Olivia, has safeguarded over 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles during their nesting season at the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha.
The operation, conducted from November to May, plays a crucial role in protecting the endangered species by patrolling the coastline, preventing illegal fishing, and promoting sustainable practices.
The mass nesting this year marks a significant milestone, demonstrating the impact of continuous surveillance and community engagement initiatives. Since the inception of Operation Olivia, the ICG has executed thousands of patrol sorties and aerial surveillance missions, detaining illegal fishing boats and working closely with local communities to implement conservation measures.
With an increasing number of turtles arriving at Odisha’s shores annually, the efforts of the Indian Coast Guard stand as a testament to India’s commitment to marine biodiversity conservation.