Tamil Nadu’s Dugong Conservation Model Gains Global Recognition

Recently, the IUCN World Conservation Congress recognized Tamil Nadu’s dugong conservation model as a “global best practice” and recommended its strategies be adopted by other countries. This success is the result of joint conservation efforts by the Tamil Nadu government, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), local fishing communities and other stakeholders. Established in 2022, the 448.34 sq km Dugong Conservation Reserve includes 12,250 hectares of seagrass meadows. The conservation efforts include fishermen compensation, seagrass restoration, awareness campaigns, and dugong rescue programs. So far, 16 dugongs have been rescued and safely released.