Context: In a significant stride toward wildlife conservation, the UP government has implemented groundbreaking measures to protect turtle species throughout Uttar Pradesh.
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- As the world observes World Turtle Day on May 23 to highlight the importance and conservation of turtles, UP distinguishes itself with its proactive and dedicated initiatives.
- Turtles, among the oldest and longest-living creatures on the planet, play a crucial role in sustaining aquatic ecosystems.
- They are commonly known as the “cleaners of water bodies,” they help reduce pollution in rivers, ponds, and lakes by maintaining ecological balance.
- UP has set up multiple conservation centers, including those in Kukrail, Sarnath, and Chambal.
- These facilities provide secure habitats and breeding grounds for a variety of turtle species.
- As part of the Namami Gange initiative, efforts are underway to identify and protect turtles and their natural habitats.
- A dedicated turtle sanctuary has been established near Prayagraj.
- The sanctuary was created in 2020 and spans a 30-kilometre stretch across three districts—beginning at Kothari Meja in Prayagraj, passing through Mirzapur and Bhadohi, and extending up to Uparwar.
- India is home to 30 species of turtles, with 15 of them naturally found in Uttar Pradesh..
- These include species such as 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, among others.
- Species such as Katahwa, Morpankhi, Saal, and Sundari play a vital role in maintaining clean and ecologically balanced water bodies, especially in the face of rising pollution levels.
About Turtle Day 2025
- It is commemorated on 23 May every year.
- It traces its origins to 1990 when Susan Tellem and Marshall Thompson, a married couple, founded the American Tortoise Rescue (ATR) with the mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect turtles and tortoises, which face many threats.
- In 2000, their vision transformed into a global celebration known as World Turtle Day.
- Theme: Dancing Turtles Rock!
- Key Facts
- Turtles have been around for more than 200 million years, existing before snakes, crocodiles, and even dinosaurs.
- Many people confuse turtles with tortoises: turtles live in aquatic environments (either sea or freshwater), while tortoises are land animals. Tortoises can live up to 300 years, whereas turtles generally live between 40 and 70 years.
- Turtles are vital to ocean ecosystems as they consume dead fish and seagrass, while tortoises contribute by creating habitats with their burrows.
- Due to threats like plastic pollution and illegal trafficking, 129 out of the 300 turtle species are currently endangered.
- Interestingly, some turtles can breathe through their cloaca, enabling them to remain underwater for extended periods.
