India’s First Dugong Conservation Reserve Receives Formal Recognition from IUCN

Why is it in the news ?

• International Recognition: The Dugong Conservation Reserve, established by the Government of Tamil Nadu on 21 September 2022, has received formal recognition from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
• Global Support: The proposal was presented by the Omkar Foundation at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi and received support from members worldwide.
• Significance: This recognition provides international validation and support to India’s marine conservation policies and efforts.

Features of the Dugong Conservation Reserve

Biological and Ecological Importance of Dugong

• Scientific Name: Dugong dugon
• Habitat: Tropical and subtropical marine areas; mainly Palk Bay, Gulf of Mannar, Southeast Asia
• Diet: Seagrass
• Red List Status: Vulnerable
• Physical Size: Length 2.5–4 meters; Weight 250–500 kg
• Reproduction: Gestation 13–15 months; usually 1 calf

Ecological Importance:

1. Helps maintain seagrass meadows.
2. Acts as a carbon sink in oceans.
3. Fish breeding grounds support local fishermen’s livelihoods.

Status in India:

• Mainly found along the Tamil Nadu coast.
• Estimated population: ~240
• First Dugong Conservation Reserve established in 2022.

Reasons and Importance of Conservation

1. Marine Ecosystem: Dugongs maintain seagrass meadows essential for marine life and fish breeding.
2. Climate Regulation: Seagrass contributes to carbon storage in oceans.
3. Local Communities: Supports the economic and food security of fishermen.
4. Global Conservation: Contributes to saving species at risk of extinction.

International Significance of the Dugong Conservation Reserve

• First marine conservation area in India recognized by IUCN.
• Showcases India’s marine ecology and biodiversity conservation strategies internationally.
• With global community support, the reserve becomes part of the worldwide conservation network.

IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature)

• Established: 1948, Headquarters: Gland, Switzerland
• Objectives:
  • Conservation of biodiversity and natural resources
  • Promotion of sustainable development
  • Collaboration on environmental challenges

Key Functions:

1. Red List: Global assessment of species’ conservation status.
2. Ecosystem Protection: Conservation of wildlife, marine life, wetlands, rivers.
3. Sustainable Development & Policy Advice: In energy, agriculture, water, and climate change.
4. Global Collaboration: Works with UN and other organizations.

Structure:

• 160+ member governments
• 1,400+ NGOs, scientists, and experts
• Non-profit organization
• Contribution in India:
  • Project Tiger
  • Biosphere Reserves
  • Identification of biodiversity hotspots
  • Wetland conservation
• Many Indian species listed in IUCN Red List: Asiatic Lion, Bengal Tiger, Ganga Dolphin, One-horned Rhino