India Unveils Draft Roadmap for Marine Mammal Conservation Till 2032

India has drafted a 2027-2032 Marine Mammal Science and Conservation roadmap focusing on reducing fishing-related deaths, strengthening scientific monitoring and increasing community participation in protecting marine biodiversity.

The draft recommendations emerged at a two-day national workshop on “Marine Mammal Conservation: Science, Fisheries & Community Action” hosted by the Fishery Survey of India (FSI) at the World Trade Centre in Mumbai. The workshop concluded on Saturday with discussions on fisheries, bycatch mitigation and community-led conservation.

A key focus was the wider adoption of Bycatch Reduction Devices (BRDs) and modifications to fishing gear across artisanal and industrial fleets. Experts from the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) and ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) highlighted mitigation measures aimed at reducing marine megafauna deaths and supporting compliance with international seafood market requirements.

Dr Dipani Sutaria underlined the importance of marine mammals as indicators of climate-driven ocean health, according to the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

The workshop also stressed the role of citizen science and local stranding networks in conservation efforts. Dr Tejal Vijapure of the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) showcased the Jalchar application, which enables fishers to report marine megafauna sightings using GPS locations, timestamps and photographs. Participants called for wider institutional collaboration to expand its reach.

The Wildlife Trust of India’s Sajan John highlighted the need for rapid rescue response, veterinary care and specialised training for handling stranded marine mammals. The discussions also emphasised long-term monitoring of threats, including marine pollution, and greater public access to scientific information.

FSI Director General Dr Sreenath K R chaired the valedictory session, where participants endorsed a framework centred on stock assessment, responsible fishing practices and protection of marine biodiversity across India’s Exclusive Economic Zone.