World Turtle Day: UP's success story in conservation
1
2
Lucknow: In a remarkable push towards wildlife preservation, the Yogi govt has taken unprecedented measures to conserve turtle species across Uttar Pradesh. As the world celebrates World Turtle Day on May 23 to raise awareness about the protection and biological significance of turtles, UP stands out with its proactive efforts.
Turtles are considered one of the oldest and longest-living creatures on earth and play a vital role in maintaining aquatic ecosystems. Often referred to as the "cleaners of water bodies", these creatures help control pollution in rivers, ponds and lakes.
Turtles rescued from illegal trafficking in other states are being relocated and protected in UP. Several conservation centres have been established, including those in Kukrail, Sarnath and Chambal, along with a dedicated Turtle Sanctuary near Prayagraj.
These centres serve as safe habitats and breeding grounds for various turtle species.
Under the Namami Gange projects, work has also started to identify and protect turtles and their natural habitats. A turtle sanctuary has been set up near Prayagraj. Arvind Yadav, DFO, Prayagraj, said the sanctuary was established in 2020. It covers a 30-kilometre area and stretches across three districts — starting from Kothari Meja in Prayagraj, passing through Mirzapur and Bhadohi, and reaching up to Uparwar.
Out of 30 species of turtles found in India, 15 are found in UP, including Brahmani, Pacheda, Kori Pacheda, Kalitoh, Kala Kacchua, Haldi Baath Kacchua, Saal Kacchua Tilakdhari, Dhor Kacchua, Bhootkatha Kacchua, Pahadi Trikutki Kacchua, Sundari Kacchua, Morpankhi Kacchua, Katahwa Litherhwa, Syontar Fighter, Parvati Kacchua, and others.
Species like Katahwa, Morpankhi, Saal, and Sundari play an essential role in keeping water bodies clean and ecologically balanced amidst growing pollution concerns.
Anuradha Vemuri, principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), UP, said efforts are also being made to stop their trade.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
India Gazette
2 hours ago
- India Gazette
NMCG marks World Environment Day with major push for river conservation
Bulandshahr (Uttar Pradesh) [India], June 6 (ANI): Reaffirming its unwavering dedication to pollution control, ecological restoration, and community involvement, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) organised a vibrant event in Bulandshahr on World Environment Day. The occasion was marked by inspiring speeches, community activities, and initiatives aimed at protecting India's sacred rivers. Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil presided over the event and highlighted the three core pillars of the mission: ecological restoration, sustainable living, and technology-driven conservation. Emphasising the spiritual and environmental significance of rivers such as the Ganga, he remarked that protecting these water bodies is both a cultural duty and an urgent environmental priority. 'Through collaboration, I am confident our shared aspiration for a pristine Yamuna will be realised. On the auspicious occasion of Ganga Dussehra, I extend my heartfelt wishes to all and express deep gratitude to the workers and farmers dedicated to organic farming and preserving a clean Yamuna,' said Minister Patil. During the event, Minister Patil engaged warmly with Ganga Praharis and students, who shared innovative eco-friendly initiatives. A cleanliness drive at the ghat involving volunteers and municipal staff demonstrated a strong community commitment to river conservation. A street play captivated the audience by emphasising personal responsibility and the Ganga's profound spiritual and ecological significance. Minister Patil also inaugurated a workshop on natural farming and agricultural innovation, attended by farmers, experts, and students. The workshop focused on chemical-free farming practices, soil health, and combating climate change. Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director General of the National Mission for Clean Ganga, reinforced that conserving the Ganga and its tributaries is a shared responsibility that safeguards India's cultural heritage and ensures clean water for future generations. He praised the Namami Gange programme for its transformative impact, noting that over Rs 40,000 crore has been invested across nearly 500 projects nationwide to rejuvenate water resources and ecosystems. Krishi Sakhi, Nilima Sharma shared her experience, and said, 'Initially, we struggled financially with organic farming, but today, we are profitable and recognised throughout our district. I encourage other farmers to embrace this sustainable path.' The National Mission for Clean Ganga continues to champion river revival, sustainable agriculture, and grassroots engagement, paving a vibrant path toward a cleaner, greener tomorrow. (ANI)
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Union Jal Shakti minister pushes to conserve rivers
Lucknow: Union Jal Shakti minister CR Patil participated in a ' World Environment Day ' programme at Bulandshahr on Thursday, where he planted a sapling and released fish fingerlings into the Ganga. Remarking that in Indian culture, every river is revered as a mother, Patil said that conserving rivers was not just a responsibility but an act of devotion. He identified plastic pollution in rivers as one of the biggest challenges of the present times and highlighted the importance of eliminating the use of plastic. "Until we realise that the Ganga is not just a river but a life-giving force, our conservation efforts will remain incomplete," he said. Patil highlighted the role of the Namami Gange programme launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 and spoke about how the sewage treatment plants (STPs) installed across the Ganga basin worked to stop untreated water from entering the river. Patil interacted with 200 'Ganga praharis' and praised them for not only cleaning the river themselves but also stopping others from polluting it. He also visited the Ganga Aqua Life Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre in Narora, a centre working on the conservation of Gangetic dolphins, freshwater turtles and other aquatic species. He released fish fingerlings into the Ganga at Narora Ghat, a step seen as crucial for restoring the aquatic food chain. A specially designed mobile bus operated by the National Book Trust (NBT) was also launched at the event. The bus will travel to rural and semi-urban areas to promote environmental awareness through literature, storytelling and interactive learning.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
CM to plant Harishankari sapling in Ayodhya today
Lucknow: Chief Minister will plant a sapling in under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign on the occasion of on Thursday. The plantation will take place at Pushp Vatika near Ramkatha Park on the banks of the Saryu. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Similar drives will be conducted across all districts of Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, the environment department will host a special programme at the Regional Science Centre in Aliganj, Lucknow. According to Ayodhya's divisional forest officer Prakhar Gupta, the Chief Minister will plant a Harishankari sapling, and all preparations for the event are complete. Following CM Yogi's call, the environment department will involve school children and youth in taking a pledge to "End Plastic Globally" and work towards protecting the environment. The main event in Lucknow will include street plays, speeches, drawing competitions, and training sessions to spread environmental awareness. Experts and volunteers from various organisations will also participate. Environment director Sushant Sharma stated that all district magistrates have been instructed to conduct similar events in their respective areas.
