Operation Olivia 2025: Protecting Odisha's Olive Ridley Turtles

In a monumental stride towards marine conservation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has successfully safeguarded a record-breaking 6.98 lakh Olive Ridley turtles nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth in Odisha during February 2025. This remarkable achievement underlines the critical role played by the ICG’s flagship annual mission, Operation Olivia, which is dedicated to protecting the endangered Olive Ridley turtles along the Odisha coastline, especially at the famed Gahirmatha Beach and surrounding nesting sites.

Operation Olivia: A Lifeline for Olive Ridley Turtles

Launched to coincide with the mass nesting season of Olive Ridley turtles, Operation Olivia runs annually from November to May, covering the critical period when these majestic marine creatures arrive to lay their eggs. Odisha’s coast, particularly Gahirmatha Beach, is one of the world’s largest mass nesting sites for Olive Ridley turtles, attracting over eight lakh turtles each year. The operation’s primary goal is to ensure these turtles have a safe and undisturbed environment to nest, hatch, and return to the sea.

The recent record mass nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth is a testament to the operation’s ongoing success and the Indian Coast Guard’s unwavering commitment to marine conservation.

Comprehensive Surveillance and Patrolling: Guarding Turtle Nesting Grounds

Since the inception of Operation Olivia, the ICG has undertaken an impressive 5,387 surface patrol sorties and 1,768 aerial surveillance missions. These extensive patrols serve to monitor the coastlines for illegal fishing activities and other threats that jeopardize the turtles’ nesting environment.

Illegal fishing has historically posed one of the gravest threats to Olive Ridley populations, causing habitat destruction and accidental turtle bycatch. The ’s rigorous enforcement has led to the detention of 366 boats involved in illegal fishing, showcasing its pivotal role in protecting the marine ecosystem.

Engaging Local Communities for Sustainable Conservation

Recognizing that conservation is not only about enforcement but also about community participation, Operation Olivia actively involves local fishing communities. The ICG promotes the use of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs)—specialized fishing gear designed to allow turtles to escape from fishing nets safely, thereby significantly reducing accidental deaths.

In addition, the Indian Coast Guard has established formal partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) through Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). These collaborations facilitate conservation education, raising awareness about the importance of protecting Olive Ridley turtles and encouraging sustainable fishing practices that benefit both marine life and coastal livelihoods.

A Model for Marine Conservation Success

Operation Olivia stands out as a pioneering initiative in marine wildlife conservation, combining technological surveillance, strict enforcement, and community engagement to protect one of the ocean’s most vulnerable species. The record number of turtles nesting at the Rushikulya river mouth during the 2025 season underscores the positive impact of this mission.

By safeguarding the delicate nesting grounds of Olive Ridley turtles, the Indian Coast Guard not only helps preserve biodiversity but also reinforces India’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable marine resource management.

Conclusion

The success of Operation Olivia in 2025—marked by the protection of nearly seven lakh Olive Ridley turtles—showcases the Coast Guard’s comprehensive and effective conservation approach. Through consistent patrols, aerial monitoring, stringent crackdown on illegal activities, and community partnerships, this mission ensures the survival and thriving of an endangered marine species. As the program continues to evolve, it sets a global benchmark for coordinated efforts in wildlife conservation and coastal protection.