Every year on May 23, people around the world celebrate World Turtle Day. This day raises awareness about the importance of protecting turtles and their habitats. In Gujarat, especially along the coastline of Dwarka, the celebration takes on a special significance due to the presence of two main species of turtles: the Green Turtle and the Olive Ridley Turtle.
Turtles are not just important for biodiversity; they also hold cultural significance in many societies. In ancient texts, Lord Vishnu is said to have taken the form of a tortoise, symbolising strength and support. Thus, turtles are revered by many, and their protection is seen as a moral duty.
The coastline of Dwarka has become a vital breeding ground for these turtles. The government has established breeding centres in Okhamadhi and Navadra to help increase their populations. Since 2012, these centres have bred over 80,000 turtles, releasing them back into the sea. These efforts are crucial as the numbers of turtles worldwide have been declining.
Each year, female turtles return to the shore where they were born to lay their eggs. They dig a hole in the sand to lay between 80 to 160 eggs and then cover them up to protect them. To ensure their safety, forest department officials regularly monitor these nesting sites. They collect the eggs and place them in hatcheries where they can be safely incubated.
The Olive Ridley Turtle, known for its small size, is particularly vulnerable. It is famous for its incredible nesting phenomenon, where thousands of turtles arrive simultaneously on the shores to lay their eggs. In contrast, the Green Turtle, which is more herbivorous, feeds on seagrass and algae, playing a vital role in the marine ecosystem.
In a recent report, officials mentioned that around 6,000 baby turtles were released into the sea from the breeding centres in 2024-2025 alone. Over the years, a total of 160,000 eggs have been collected, resulting in roughly 80,000 hatchlings returned to their natural habitat. This positive trend reflects the hard work of dedicated volunteers and conservationists.
The protection of turtles is not only about saving a species but also about maintaining the health of our oceans. Turtles contribute to the balance of marine ecosystems. They help maintain seagrass beds, which serve as vital habitats for many marine species.
However, turtle populations face many threats, including pollution and habitat loss. It is crucial for everyone to participate in conservation efforts. Simple actions like reducing plastic use and not littering on beaches can significantly impact turtle survival.
On this World Turtle Day, let us pledge to protect these ancient creatures. We can support local conservation initiatives and spread awareness about the challenges turtles face. By respecting their habitats and advocating for their protection, we can ensure that future generations will also witness the beauty of these remarkable animals.
As we celebrate this special day, let’s remember that every small action counts in the fight for conservation. Together, we can make a difference and help preserve our planet’s marine life.
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