Tamil Nadu Smooth Coated Otter Conservation Initiative

Conservation initiative in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu Smooth Coated Otter Conservation Initiative: Tamil Nadu has launched a dedicated conservation initiative to protect the smooth-coated otter in the Cauvery Delta. The programme responds to declining otter populations and increasing conflicts between otters and river-dependent communities.

The announcement was made during a Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly session focusing on endangered species protection. The initiative reflects a shift towards species-specific conservation within freshwater ecosystems.

Static GK fact: Tamil Nadu is one of the few Indian states with long riverine ecosystems supporting otters, dolphins, and mangrove-associated fauna.

Ecological importance of smooth-coated otters

The smooth-coated otter is the largest otter species in Asia and plays a crucial role in maintaining aquatic ecological balance. It functions as a bio-indicator, reflecting the health of rivers, wetlands, and estuaries.

Otters live in social groups known as bevvies, hunting cooperatively in slow-moving waters. By regulating fish populations, they prevent overpopulation of certain species and support ecosystem stability.

In the Cauvery Delta, otters inhabit irrigation canals, tributaries, and mangrove fringes. They construct shelters called holts along earthen riverbanks, making them sensitive to habitat disturbance.

Static GK Tip: Bio-indicator species are used worldwide to assess pollution levels and ecosystem degradation.

Rising human–wildlife conflict

Human–otter conflict has intensified in delta villages such as Anaikarai, where otters are locally known as “meenakutty.” Reduced river flows and declining fish stocks have increased competition for resources.

Otters frequently get entangled in fishing nets, leading to injuries or death. Fisherfolk face damaged nets, lost catch, and economic stress, worsening local resentment towards the species.

Pollution from pesticide runoff, plastic waste, and untreated sewage has reduced prey availability. Upstream dams and barrages have altered natural river flows, shrinking suitable otter habitats.

Legal protection and funding

The smooth-coated otter is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. In India, it receives the highest legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

The Tamil Nadu government has granted administrative approval of ₹20 lakh for the initiative. Funding has been allocated for the 2025–26 financial year to support research and conservation activities.

Static GK fact: Schedule I species enjoy protection equivalent to tigers and elephants under Indian wildlife law.

Research and habitat restoration strategy

The programme will be led by the research wing of the Tamil Nadu Forest Department. Field studies will cover Thanjavur, Thiruvarur, and Cuddalore districts, which form the core of the Cauvery Delta.

Scientists will use direct sightings, faecal analysis, camera documentation, and environmental DNA sampling to estimate population size and movement patterns. Habitat quality and prey availability will also be assessed.

Based on findings, restoration measures such as reed plantation, bank stabilisation, and fish ladder construction will be undertaken. Conflict mitigation strategies will aim to reduce accidental net entanglement.

Community engagement and long-term goals

Community awareness programmes will be conducted with fisherfolk and local conservation groups. Emphasis will be placed on coexistence, reporting sightings, and protecting nesting sites.

The initiative seeks to integrate research, restoration, and community participation for long-term conservation. Protecting otters will also enhance freshwater resilience in the Cauvery Delta.

Static GK Tip: Riverine conservation indirectly supports agriculture, fisheries, and drinking water security.

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Tamil Nadu Smooth Coated Otter Conservation Initiative: