World Ocean Day 2026: Learn about these encouraging conservation efforts that are making the Indian Ocean a better place

A view of the Indian Ocean from Kanyakumari Beach. Representation pic/Istock

Gentle giants

Measuring 40 feet (almost the length of a BEST bus), Whale Sharks are the largest fish found on Earth. Unfortunately for them, with great size, comes great risk. Off the coast of Gujarat, Kerala and Lakshadweep, these sharks frequently get entangled in fishing nets.

A Whale Shark is rescued from fishing nets in Thiruvananthapuram. PICS COURTESY/WTI

Contrary to popular opinion, these sharks are docile, and feed on organic matter and smaller organisms. The Pan India Whale Shark Conservation Project that started in Gujarat in 2004 has reached Goa this year. The story of how local fishermen sacrifice their tools, and sometimes the day's earnings, to save these gentle giants is a story in itself.
Log on to: wti.org.in

Made in Mumbai

Marine life thrives at an artifical reef. PIC COURTESY/KUDDLE LIFE FOUNDATION

If the term reef brings to mind sights of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, you've been living under a reef, er... we mean rock. While the coastline of Mumbai is home to reef-building coral species, it was only in 2024 that the city received its first, and India's second-ever artificial reef. Kuddle Life Foundation set up 210 artificial reefs off the Worli Koliwada. As the reef matures, it becomes home to small fish that seek food and shelter. This draws in large-sized fish species, leading to a thriving marine ecosystem.
Log on to: kuddlelife.org

Dugong deeper

A Dugong feeds on seagrass. PIC COURTESY/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

We're not making this up - there exists an endangered species of ‘sea cows' in southern India, and they have an even more endearing scientific name: Dugong dugon. They are herbivorous and graze on seagrass shallow waters. The Organization for Marine Conservation, Awareness and Research (OMCAR) works on research and restoration of Dugong habitats in Tamil Nadu. A recent survey in the Palk Bay revealed more than 200 dugongs. Good news if you're keen to know more about these sea cows: An International Dugong Conservation Centre in Thanjavur is in the works as you read this.
Log on to: omcar.org/dugongs

What are reefs?

Often dubbed the rainforests of the sea, reefs are ridges under the surface of the sea that are home to hundreds, sometimes thousands, of species.

What the fish?

Consuming marine species in their breeding period puts them at risk. Know Your Fish is a platform led by marine biologists that will help you decide the seafood you can consume in the upcoming monsoon months.
Log on to: knowyourfish.org

Did you know?

Every Whale Shark has a distinct pattern of white spots on its body. No two whale sharks can ever be alike.