Bhubaneswar: In a major victory for marine conservation, the Indian Coast Guard’s (ICG) annual flagship initiative, ‘Operation Olivia,’ has helped protect a record 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles during their mass nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha in February 2025.
Conducted annually from November to May, Operation Olivia has become a cornerstone of India’s efforts to safeguard the endangered Olive Ridley turtles, particularly along the Odisha coastline. The operation focuses on critical nesting sites such as Gahirmatha Beach, Rushikulya, and Devi river mouth, which together host the arrival of over eight lakh turtles each year.
This year’s record nesting at Rushikulya is being celebrated as a direct outcome of rigorous surface and aerial patrolling, effective enforcement, and deep community engagement spearheaded by the Indian Coast Guard.
Since its inception, Operation Olivia has resulted in over 5,387 surface patrol sorties and 1,768 aerial surveillance missions, significantly curbing threats like illegal fishing, habitat encroachment, and light pollution—all major risks to the turtles’ nesting and hatching cycles. The ICG’s enforcement efforts have led to the detention of 366 boats involved in unauthorized fishing, underlining its commitment to preserving marine biodiversity.
Apart from robust surveillance, the ICG has actively collaborated with local fishing communities, encouraging the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) and promoting sustainable fishing practices. The Coast Guard has also entered into formal partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to expand conservation outreach and education among coastal populations.
A senior ICG official noted that the operation is not only a wildlife protection exercise but also a platform for fostering community-led conservation. “The success of Operation Olivia lies in its holistic approach—combining enforcement with awareness, and science with grassroots action,” the official said.
Named after the Olive Ridley turtle, listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, Operation Olivia has evolved into a symbol of India’s marine conservation ethos. With each passing year, the mission continues to reinforce India’s commitment to protecting endangered marine species and preserving ecological balance along its vast coastline.
