Missile testing paused in Odisha to save sea turtles

Context: DRDO pauses missile testing off Odisha coast to save lives of Olive Ridley sea turtles

Details:

• The Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO), which is India’s leading agency for military research and development, has temporarily halted missile testing activities on Wheeler Island along the coast of Odisha. 
• This decision has been made in consideration of the Olive Ridley sea turtles, as they enter their crucial mass nesting season from January to March of the upcoming year.
• The main objective behind this initiative is to guarantee the long-term existence and well-being of the species that are currently at risk of extinction.

Olive Ridley Turtles:

• • About:The Olive Ridley turtles, which are the tiniest and most populous species of sea turtles on the planet, can be found in various regions of the world’s oceans.

• Habitat:These creatures can be located in the tropical regions of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans.

• • Diet:The Olive Ridley sea turtles are carnivores.
  • Breeding:They are well-known for their mass nesting behaviour called Arribada, where thousands of females gather on the same beach to lay eggs. 
    • The coast of Odisha in India is the largest mass nesting site for these turtles, and Odisha’s Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary is the largest known breeding colony for them. 
  • IUCN Red list: The Olive Ridley sea turtles are classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List and are protected under Appendix I of CITES and Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act.
  • The Indian Coast Guard conducts an annual program called “Operation Olivia” to protect Olive Ridley Turtles.

• Threats:Unsustainable fishing methods, hunting for food and oil, and the use of unhatched eggs and shells for fertilisers are detrimental to the environment. 
• Additionally, missile testing, mechanised boats, and human activity negatively affect the nesting and breeding of marine species.

Wheeler Island :

• This island holds immense significance as it houses the Integrated Test Range missile testing facility. 
• Serving as a crucial testing hub, it plays a pivotal role in the development and evaluation of various types of missiles manufactured by India. 
• Notably, the facility is responsible for conducting tests on missiles like Agni and Prithvi, which are vital components of India’s defence system. 
• The presence of this testing facility on Abdul Kalam Island highlights the nation’s commitment to advancing its missile technology and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.

Source: livemint

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