India’s First Dugong Conservation Reserve

Current Context: The Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay, Tamil Nadu has received global recognition by IUCN at the World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi.

ABOUT Dugong Conservation Reserve

• Established: 21 September 2022 by Tamil Nadu Government.
• Location: Covers 34 sq. km in northern Palk Bay, including 12,250 hectares of seagrass meadows.
• Species Protected: Dugong (Dugong dugon), classified as Vulnerable on IUCN Red List.

Significance of Seagrass Meadows

• Provide food and habitat for dugongs and marine species.
• Maintain water quality and prevent shoreline erosion.
• Vital for biodiversity and marine ecosystem restoration.