Key Facts & Data

  • Proposal: Union Budget 2026‑27 earmarks funds for turtle trails – designated coastal pathways and viewing infrastructure at major turtle nesting sites.
  • Target Species: Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), the smallest sea‑turtle species, listed Vulnerable (IUCN), CITES Appendix I, and Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
  • Nesting Behaviour: Arribada – mass nesting where thousands of females come ashore simultaneously, mainly between December and March.
  • Major Indian Nesting Sites:
  • Gahirmatha and Rushikulya (Odisha) – among the world’s largest Olive Ridley colonies.
  • Devi River mouth (Odisha) and Andaman Islands.
  • Threats: Poaching (meat, shell, eggs), accidental entanglement in trawl and gill nets; mitigation includes mandatory Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) in trawl nets.

Background & Context

  • The turtle trails concept is intended to channel ecotourism, providing controlled access for visitors while generating revenue for coastal communities.
  • Similar ecotourism models exist for sea‑turtles in countries like Costa Rica and the Maldives, but their success hinges on strict regulation to avoid disturbance.

Significance for India / Governance / Policy

  • Biodiversity Conservation: Olive Ridley turtles are a flagship marine species; their successful nesting contributes to marine ecosystem health.
  • Livelihoods: Coastal tourism can boost local economies, yet must balance with the livelihoods of fishing communities.
  • Policy Dilemma: Prioritising tourism‑driven infrastructure versus strengthening habitat protection and fishing regulation (e.g., enforcement of TEDs, anti‑poaching measures).

Legal & Constitutional Provisions

  • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 – Schedule I: Provides the highest level of protection; offenses attract stringent penalties.
  • CITES (1975) – Appendix I: International trade in Olive Ridley parts is prohibited.
  • Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2019: Governs development activities along the coastline; any infrastructure must obtain CRZ clearance.
  • National Biodiversity Act, 2002: Mandates biodiversity impact assessments for projects affecting marine habitats.

Concerns & Recommendations from Conservationists

  • Disturbance of Darkness & Tranquility: Night‑time nesting requires minimal artificial lighting and human presence.
  • Potential Habitat Degradation: Construction of pathways may lead to erosion, litter, and increased human‑wildlife conflict.
  • Recommendations:
  1. Prioritise strict enforcement of existing protection measures (TEDs, anti‑poaching patrols).
  2. Conduct Comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) before any trail construction.
  3. Implement community‑led monitoring and capacity‑building for sustainable ecotourism.
  4. Explore alternative livelihood options for fishing communities to reduce dependence on vulnerable marine resources.

Prepared for UPSC aspirants – focus on factual details, policy implications, and legal framework.