Why in News: Dugongs (Dugong dugon), herbivorous marine mammals, once widespread in Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, Gulf of Kutch, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, are now reduced to a few hundred.
Recent Conservation Efforts
Dugong Conservation Reserve (2022):
- 12,000 hectares in Palk Bay, Tamil Nadu, under Wildlife (Protection) Act.
- Community participation and WII support reduced poaching, encouraged safe release from by-catch.
- Population estimated at 200+ individuals.
IUCN recognition: Reserve praised for ecological significance and innovative restoration.
Technological interventions:
- Drone platforms for surveillance.
- Acoustic & satellite mapping of seagrass beds.
- Eco-restoration using bamboo & coconut rope frames.
Challenges Ahead
- Human activity: mechanised fishing, port construction, dredging, agricultural/industrial pollution.
- Climate threats: rising sea temperatures, acidification, storms damaging seagrass meadows.
- By-catch mortality persists despite awareness drives.
- Regional imbalance: Populations in Gujarat & Andamans smaller and less protected.
- Cross-border challenge: Dugongs migrate through Palk Strait → need India–Sri Lanka cooperation.
- Funding gaps: Conservation requires decades-long sustained investment; current funding inconsistent.
Way Forward
- Strengthen community engagement with fishers as conservation partners.
- Enhance regional cooperation with Sri Lanka.
- Ensure consistent funding via compensatory afforestation funds & global partnerships.
- Blend traditional ecological knowledge with modern technology (drones, echosounders).
- Extend similar models to other marine species (turtles, sharks, corals).
Conclusion
Dugong conservation exemplifies how community-led, technology-aided, and internationally endorsed models can balance ecological needs with human activity.
GS Paper III (Environment, Ecology, Biodiversity & Conservation)
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 – Dugong Conservation Reserve (2022).
Mains Practice Question
Q1. “Marine conservation in India requires engaging communities as stakeholders rather than treating them as adversaries.” In the context of dugong conservation, discuss this statement. (250 words)
