FLASH NEWS
The second session of the Awareness Program on Conservation of Endangered, Threatened, and Protected (ETP) Marine Species was conducted on 18 July 2025 at M.M Resort, Bhatkal, as part of the coast-wide initiative organized by the Small Pelagic Purse Seine Fisheries – Karnataka State FIP. In collaboration with ICAR–CMFRI, the Department of Fisheries, the Karnataka Forest Department, and fishermen associations, this program aimed to strengthen understanding of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and reduce accidental harm to protected marine species. The Bhatkal program recorded the highest attendance in the series, with 314 vessel owners, captains, and crew leaders, reflecting strong community interest and readiness to engage in conservation efforts.
The training session covered critical topics such as the legal framework governing ETP species, including sharks, rays, sea turtles, dolphins, and whales, many of which are listed under Schedules I and II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act and are fully protected from capture or harm. Experts presented case studies on species recently brought under higher protection categories and explained the ecological roles of elasmobranchs and other vulnerable marine fauna. A detailed demonstration of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for safe release of accidentally entangled ETP species was conducted, focusing on safe handling techniques, documentation procedures, and communication with authorities. Participants were also introduced to the ETP Species Release Log Sheet, Crew Training Registers, and the Voluntary Compliance Declaration—tools designed to empower fishers to monitor, record, and self-regulate encounters with protected species.
Each participant received an ETP awareness kit containing identification posters, SOP manuals, logbooks, and compliance forms, enabling them to apply the training directly on their vessels. The enthusiastic participation at Bhatkal demonstrated a strong commitment among fishers to adopt sustainable practices and align their operations with national conservation laws. The session also strengthened coordination between scientific institutions and fisheries associations, fostering a collaborative environment for long-term marine conservation. The event concluded with a renewed pledge from the fishing community to prioritize the protection of endangered marine species and implement the SOPs consistently across their fishing operations, solidifying Bhatkal’s role as a key contributor to the statewide ETP conservation initiative.