Home / Environment / Lakshadweep's Sea Turtles Get Unified Protection Framework
Lakshadweep's Sea Turtles Get Unified Protection Framework
20 Jun
Summary
- A new SOP offers a unified framework for sea turtle conservation.
- All four major sea turtle species are legally protected in Lakshadweep.
- The SOP addresses nesting site security and marine debris rescue.
A new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been released by the Union environment ministry, establishing a unified and scientifically sound framework for the conservation, monitoring, and management of sea turtles in Lakshadweep. This initiative provides comprehensive guidelines for protecting the four major species found in the region: Green turtles, Hawksbills, Leatherbacks, and Olive Ridleys.
These sea turtle species already benefit from the highest tier of legal protection under India's Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, within the Union Territory. The SOP specifically addresses critical aspects such as securing nesting sites by managing beach development, human habitation encroachment, and artificial illumination that can disorient hatchlings.
Furthermore, the SOP includes systematic tracking protocols for officials to document turtle migration across all 36 islands. It also outlines actionable steps for maritime bodies and local communities to facilitate the rescue of turtles entangled in marine debris or abandoned fishing nets. Strict anti-poaching measures in Lakshadweep have contributed to an increase in local green turtle numbers over the past decade, with the uninhabited islands of Suheli Valiyakara showing the highest density of green turtle nesting.
