Tamil Nadu Establishes Marine Elite Force

The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has initiated the establishment of a Marine Elite Force, primarily aimed at the conservation of endangered marine species, particularly the Olive Ridley turtles. The unit, which will be operated under the Chennai Wildlife Division, has been allocated a budget of ₹96 lakh for the fiscal year 2025-2026. This initiative was formally announced in a Government Order issued by Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary for the Departments of Environment, Climate Change, and Forests.

Key Details:

• Budget and Implementation: The Marine Elite Force has a budget allocation of ₹96 lakh for the year 2025-2026.

• Geographical Focus: The operational focus will be along the coastline between Neelankarai and Marina, an important nesting ground for Olive Ridley turtles.

• Context of Establishment: This marks the second Marine Elite Force unit in Tamil Nadu, with the first unit set up in May 2024 in Ramanathapuram, dedicated to the protection of marine ecosystems in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay.

• Recent Incidents: A notable rise in Olive Ridley turtle deaths was reported in January and February 2025, attributed to factors such as bycatch in mechanised fishing nets, marine debris, ingestion of plastics, and unregulated coastal development. Hundreds of turtle carcasses were found along the Chennai coast during this period.

• Operational Mandate: The Marine Elite Force will aggressively tackle threats to marine life through:

  • Patrolling and Enforcement: Focusing on illegal fishing and wildlife crimes within a five-nautical-mile radius of the coast.
  • Response Operations: Assisting stranded or injured marine animals.
  • Nesting Season Vigilance: Conducting regular patrols during the nesting and hatching season from November to April.

• Legal Framework: The initiative will bolster the enforcement of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, ensuring compliance with regulations meant to safeguard wildlife.

• Collaborative Approach: The Marine Elite Force will work in conjunction with:

  • The Tamil Nadu Coastal Security Group
  • Indian Coast Guard
  • Fisheries Department
  • Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
  • Fishermen’s associations

• Anticipated Outcomes: The establishment of the Marine Elite Force is expected to:

  • Significantly reduce instances of turtle deaths.
  • Enhance enforcement against illegal trawling and poaching.
  • Provide quicker responses to marine strandings.
  • Generate improved data for research initiatives.
  • Foster better coordination among government departments and local communities.

The initiative reflects a concerted effort by the Tamil Nadu government to safeguard its marine biodiversity, tackle environmental threats, and ensure the sustainability of its coastal resources.

Important Points:

• Establishment of Marine Elite Force by Tamil Nadu Forest Department.
• Budget of ₹96 lakh allocated for 2025-2026.
• Focus on protecting Olive Ridley turtles and reducing threats in coastal regions.
• Second Marine Elite Force; first was established in 2024 in Ramanathapuram.
• Rise in turtle deaths attributed to fishing practices and environmental hazards.
• Enforcement against illegal practices and marine animal rescue missions.
• Collaboration with various agencies and communities for effective implementation.
• Expected outcomes include reduced marine mortality and enhanced research efforts.