Greater Flamingo Sanctuary Tamil Nadu: Dhanushkodi declared as a protected bird habitat on World Environment Day 2025 to conserve migratory birds and coastal biodiversity.
Introduction to the Sanctuary Announcement
In a landmark move for wetland conservation, the Tamil Nadu government officially designated Dhanushkodi as a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary on World Environment Day, June 5, 2025 Covering approximately 524.7 hectares within the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, this initiative aims to protect thousands of migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway
The Geography and Scope
Located in Ramanathapuram district, Dhanushkodi encompasses a mix of revenue and forest lands, mangroves, mudflats, sand dunes, and marshes. As part of the ecologically significant Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, the sanctuary spans across sensitive coastal ecosystems that support diverse flora and fauna
Avian and Ecological Significance
The 2023–24 wetland bird survey recorded over 10,700 birds and 128 species, including Greater and Lesser Flamingos, various herons, egrets, and sandpipers Dhanushkodi’s marshes and mudflats serve not only migratory avian species but also nesting sea turtles and an array of marine life, emphasizing its role in coastal biodiversity
Objectives Behind the Declaration
- Migratory Bird Protection: Emphasize conservation of the iconic Greater Flamingo and other wetland birds.
- International Commitments: Reinforce India’s obligations under the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS)
- Sustainable Development: Foster ecotourism, promote climate resilience, and generate local livelihoods.
Financial Backing & Institutional Support
Tamil Nadu’s 2025–2026 budget includes a ₹50-crore Marine Conservation Foundation to support coastal biodiversity and sanctuary initiatives Such institutional funding is critical for long-term conservation, scientific study, and community engagement.
Key Stakeholders and Inauguration Event
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin inaugurated the sanctuary via video conference, with cabinet ministers Thangam Thenarasu, R.S. Rajakannappan, and T.M. Anbarasan, along with senior forest officials, actively participating
Why This News Is Important
Strengthening Ecosystem Conservation
The sanctuary adds a fresh layer of statutory protection to a biologically rich region of the Gulf of Mannar, safeguarding crucial coastal ecosystems—mangroves, marshes, mudflats—that buffer coastlines and support local communities.
Boosting India’s Global Environmental Profile
By honoring World Environment Day, Tamil Nadu reaffirms its commitment to global conservation frameworks like the CMS, boosting India’s reputation as a proactive nation in migratory bird protection.
Education & Examination Relevance
This declaration is highly relevant for students preparing for government exams (UPSC, SSC, teaching, police, banking, etc.), as it touches upon biodiversity conservation, protected areas, international treaties, and coastal ecology—common topics in current affairs and general awareness sections.
Historical Context
Past Protected Areas & Wetland Initiatives
India has previously designated various flamingo sanctuaries at local levels, but Dhanushkodi marks a significant expansion within a UNESCO-associated Biosphere Reserve, underscoring the importance of wetland conservation in policy-making.
Dhanushkodi’s Ecological Revival
Following the devastation of the 1964 cyclone, Dhanushkodi transformed into a dynamic wetland ecosystem. Subsequent years have seen a resurgence of mangrove growth and rising sightings of migratory bird species, prompting its latest protection status.
📝 Key Takeaways from “Dhanushkodi Declared Greater Flamingo Sanctuary”
| S. No. | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Designation Date: Declared on June 5, 2025 (World Environment Day) by CM M. K. Stalin. |
| 2 | Protected Area: Encompasses approximately 524.7 hectares within the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve. |
| 3 | Biodiversity Impact: Supports over 10,700 wetland birds, across 128 species, including Greater and Lesser Flamingos. |
| 4 | Ecological Roles: Protects diverse ecosystems—mangroves, marshes, mudflats, sand dunes—and nesting sea turtles. |
| 5 | Policy & Funding: Establishment backed by a ₹50‑crore Marine Conservation Foundation in the 2025–26 state budget. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Greater Flamingo Sanctuary?
The Greater Flamingo Sanctuary is a newly declared protected area in Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu, aimed at conserving migratory birds, especially the Greater Flamingo, and preserving coastal wetland ecosystems.
2. Why was Dhanushkodi chosen for this sanctuary?
Dhanushkodi was chosen due to its ecological richness, including mudflats, marshes, mangroves, and its critical location along the Central Asian Flyway that supports large numbers of migratory birds.
3. How big is the Greater Flamingo Sanctuary in Dhanushkodi?
The sanctuary spans approximately 524.7 hectares of revenue and forest land within the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve.
4. Which birds are commonly found in the Dhanushkodi region?
Apart from Greater and Lesser Flamingos, the region hosts herons, egrets, sandpipers, and other wetland bird species, as documented in the 2023–24 bird survey.
5. What is the significance of the sanctuary in terms of exams?
This news is important for government exam aspirants as it covers topics related to environment, wildlife protection, migratory birds, Indian geography, and international environmental conventions—all commonly featured in exams like UPSC, SSC, and State PSCs.
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