Sea Turtles: Odisha Imposes Fishing Ban to Save Olive Ridley Species

A seven-month fishing ban has been imposed in the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary of Kendrapada district, Odisha, from November 1 to May 31.
The aim is to protect endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles during their annual mating and nesting season.

Thousands of these turtles visit the Gahirmatha coast every year, which is part of one of India’s richest marine biodiversity zones.

Sea Turtles: Odisha Imposes Fishing Ban to Save Olive Ridley Species

Protection and Patrolling Measures

To protect the turtles, the forest department has set up 14 protection camps, including 4 offshore camps at:

Madali
Sasanipada
Ekakula
Babubali islands

Additionally:

4 patrolling boats have been deployed to stop illegal fishing.
Marine police units from Jamboo, Talachua, and Tantiapala and the Coast Guard (Paradip) are assisting in enforcement.
Marine fishing is banned within 20 km of the 1,435 sq km sanctuary area stretching from Hukitola to Dhamra.

Safe Nesting and Hatchling Season

The Olive Ridleys start arriving in November for mating and begin laying eggs around March.
To reduce turtle deaths in nets, all trawlers are required to use Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) — special escape hatches that let trapped turtles swim out safely.
14 marker buoys have been installed to mark sanctuary limits and ensure proper surveillance.

Ecological Importance of Gahirmatha

Declared a marine sanctuary in 1997, Gahirmatha is the world’s largest rookery (nesting site) of Olive Ridley turtles.
Every year, lakhs of turtles come here for mass nesting.
In March 2025, over 6 lakh turtles laid eggs across several islands.
Odisha hosts about 50% of the global Olive Ridley population and 90% of India’s total sea turtles, making this sanctuary globally significant for marine conservation.

Balancing Livelihoods and Conservation

Although the ban affects fishermen’s income, officials explain that it is a temporary measure needed for the survival of the species.
Conservationists are urging local communities to support the initiative so that both marine life and human livelihoods can continue sustainably.

The Gahirmatha model has become a benchmark for turtle conservation efforts across India’s coastal regions.

Exam-Oriented Facts

Ban duration: November 1 to May 31
Location: Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary, Kendrapada district, Odisha
Area covered: 1,435 sq km (from Hukitola to Dhamra)
Declared as marine sanctuary: 1997
World’s largest rookery of Olive Ridley turtles
Over 6 lakh turtles laid eggs in March 2025
Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) made mandatory for trawlers
Odisha houses 50% of world’s and 90% of India’s Olive Ridley turtles

Question & Answer

Q1. Where is the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary located?
(a) Andhra Pradesh
(b) Tamil Nadu
(c) Odisha
(d) Gujarat
Answer: Odisha

Q2. The fishing ban in Gahirmatha lasts from which months?
(a) January to June
(b) November to May
(c) March to September
(d) July to December
Answer: November to May

Q3. Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary was declared in which year?
(a) 1985
(b) 1990
(c) 1997
(d) 2002
Answer: 1997

Q4. What is the total area of the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary?
(a) 900 sq km
(b) 1,200 sq km
(c) 1,435 sq km
(d) 1,800 sq km
Answer: 1,435 sq km

Q5. What device must trawlers use to prevent turtle deaths?
(a) Fish Escape System
(b) Turtle Excluder Device (TED)
(c) Ocean Safety Net
(d) Marine Saver Tool
Answer: Turtle Excluder Device (TED)

Q6. Which marine species is being protected by this fishing ban?
(a) Blue Whale
(b) Olive Ridley Turtle
(c) Dugong
(d) Coral Fish
Answer: Olive Ridley Turtle

Q7. What percentage of India’s sea turtles are found in Odisha?
(a) 50%
(b) 70%
(c) 80%
(d) 90%
Answer: 90%

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