Strengthening marine protection
Tamil Nadu launches second unit of marine elite force: Tamil Nadu has decided to set up its second Marine Elite Force unit under the Chennai Wildlife Division. The initiative builds upon the state’s earlier move in May 2024, when the first such unit was introduced at Ramanathapuram to safeguard the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay ecosystems.
Focus on turtle conservation
The new force will primarily work on protecting the endangered Olive Ridley turtles, which nest along the Chennai shoreline. The coastal belt from Neelankarai to Marina Beach is a critical nesting ground, and the presence of the force is expected to strengthen conservation measures.
Static GK fact: Olive Ridley turtles undertake one of the world’s largest mass nesting events, called “arribada,” mainly along the Odisha coast in India.
Duties and jurisdiction
The Marine Elite Force will be responsible for patrolling nearshore waters within a range of five nautical miles. It will also ensure strict implementation of conservation laws, prevent illegal fishing activities, and minimize threats to fragile marine habitats.
Legal protection framework
The force will function under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, giving it authority to enforce strict protective measures for marine species. This legal backing ensures that activities endangering biodiversity can be curbed effectively.
Static GK Tip: The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, was amended several times to strengthen conservation. The 2002 amendment increased penalties for wildlife crimes.
Coordination with other agencies
To carry out its mission effectively, the force will collaborate with multiple stakeholders, including the Tamil Nadu Coastal Security Group, the Indian Coast Guard, fisheries authorities, non-governmental organizations, and local fishing communities. Such partnerships are crucial for balancing conservation needs with livelihood concerns.
Importance of marine ecosystem protection
Tamil Nadu’s coastline is known for its coral reefs, seagrass ecosystems, and nesting habitats for marine life. The establishment of the second elite force highlights the government’s commitment to long-term biodiversity protection and sustainable coastal management.
Static GK fact: The Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, declared in 1989, was the first marine biosphere reserve in South and Southeast Asia.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Tamil Nadu launches second unit of marine elite force:
| Topic | Detail |
| Second Marine Elite Force unit | Chennai Wildlife Division |
| First unit established | May 2024 in Ramanathapuram |
| Protected regions by first unit | Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay |
| Focus of new unit | Safeguarding Olive Ridley turtles |
| Key nesting sites | Neelankarai to Marina Beach |
| Patrol coverage | Within five nautical miles of the coast |
| Legal framework | Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 |
| Collaborating agencies | Tamil Nadu Coastal Security Group, Indian Coast Guard, fisheries department, NGOs, fishermen’s associations |
| Status of Olive Ridley turtles | Vulnerable (IUCN Red List), Schedule I protection under Wildlife Act |
| Key marine reserve in Tamil Nadu | Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve (1989) |
