Tamil Nadu Sets Up Marine Elite Force

The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has initiated the establishment of a Marine Elite Force under the Chennai Wildlife Division, with a financial allocation of ₹96 lakh for the fiscal year 2025-2026. This initiative, outlined in a Government Order (G.O.) by Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, aims to protect endangered marine species, focusing particularly on Olive Ridley turtles in the coastal region from Neelankarai to Marina, a significant nesting site.

Key Highlights:

• Establishment of Marine Elite Force: The Marine Elite Force will be established with a budget of ₹96 lakh for 2025-2026.

• Second Unit in Tamil Nadu: This is the second unit of the Marine Elite Force, following the first unit set up in May 2024 in Ramanathapuram aimed at protecting marine ecosystems in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay.

• Rising Threats to Marine Life: The Chennai coast witnessed a troubling rise in Olive Ridley turtle deaths during January and February 2025, attributed to bycatch in mechanised fishing nets, marine debris, plastic ingestion, and unregulated coastal development.

• Operational Focus: The Marine Elite Force will focus on patrolling and enforcement of wildlife protection measures within five nautical miles of the coastline. This includes responding to situations involving stranded or injured marine animals and conducting regular patrols during the nesting and hatching season from November to April.

• Legislative Framework: The initiatives will support enforcement of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and will involve coordination with various agencies, including the Tamil Nadu Coastal Security Group, Indian Coast Guard, fisheries department, NGOs, and fishermen's associations.

• Expected Outcomes: The G.O. outlines the anticipated outcomes, which include:

  • Reduction in turtle deaths.
  • Increased enforcement against illegal trawling and poaching.
  • Enhanced response capacity for marine strandings.
  • Improved data collection for research purposes.
  • Better coordination among governmental departments and local communities.

This initiative reflects a significant step towards conservation and protection of marine biodiversity in Tamil Nadu, addressing critical environmental issues with legislative backing and a structured operational framework. The focus on collaboration with various stakeholders signifies a holistic approach to marine ecosystem management.

Publication Date: August 22, 2025, 01:06 am IST.