Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar has released Marine Mega Fauna Stranding Guidelines and the National Marine Turtle Action Plan in New Delhi.
The documents contain ways and means to promote inter-sectoral action for conservation. It also suggests improved coordination amongst the government, civil society and all relevant stakeholders on the response to cases of stranding, injury or mortality of marine mammals and also conservation of marine turtles.
Speaking at the virtual launch event, Mr Javadekar said that both floral and faunal diversity including the marine biodiversity is the beauty of India and we need to conserve it with best possible action and interventions.
India has rich marine biodiversity along a vast coastline of over seven thousand 500 kilometer. From colorful fish, sharks, turtles and big mammals like whales, dolphins and dugongs to bright corals, marine habitats not only harbor diverse species but also provide resources essential for human wellbeing.
Millions of people depend on these resources ranging from maritime trade and transport, food, spiritual values and inspiration that draws tourists from around the world.