Lakshadweep, February 28, 2025: The Pan India Whale Shark Conservation Project continues to extend its reach across the Lakshadweep archipelago. Led by the Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), in collaboration with the Lakshadweep Forest Department and with the support of VST Industries, this initiative aims to promote marine stewardship among local fishers, students, and the broader community. The primary objective is to reduce accidental bycatch, which poses a significant threat to whale shark populations.

In 2024-25, WTI engaged with over 3,900 children and more than 2,000 fishers across islands such as Agatti, Kavaratti, Chetlat, Androth, Kalpeni, Amini, Minicoy, Kadamat, Kiltan and Bitra. The team is conducting awareness workshops, incorporating drawing and sand art competitions to encourage creative participation among locals, especially the younger generation. A football tournament featuring players from Kerala’s Under-18 team and Lakshadweep’s Under-18 players was also a key highlight this year, designed to foster community involvement in conservation efforts. Additionally, sensitisation workshops for members of the Port, Fisheries, Forest, and Police departments have been organised. A life-sized whale shark mascot has sparked conversations among the local population, reflecting a growing interest in marine conservation. “Lakshadweep is changing rapidly, and there is growing pressure on our natural resources. As an educator, it is my responsibility to instil a sense of awareness and accountability among my students to ensure that our fragile marine heritage is protected. I urge parents to encourage their children to become stewards of nature and protect keystone species like the whale shark,” said Abu Hadifa, Headmaster of Govt. Junior Basic School, North Agatti.

Drawing competition for local children in Kavaratti, Lakshadweep | Photograph by Madhumay Mallik

A survey conducted by WTI in 2012-13, with support from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), revealed that 28% of fishers reported whale shark sightings in Lakshadweep waters. The archipelago is a known aggregation ground for the world’s largest fish. Further research indicates that a significant number of whale shark landings and stranding were reported from Kerala, primarily due to fishers venturing into Lakshadweep waters, inadvertently leading to accidental by-catches.

In 2017, WTI launched the Whale Shark Conservation Project in Kerala and Lakshadweep with the support of Cochin Shipyard Ltd. A major milestone was achieved in 2018 when fishers in North Kerala (Malappuram) successfully rescued and released a whale shark—the first documented instance of its kind. Another successful rescue followed in January 2020 from Calicut, Kerala.

Through close partnerships with the Fisheries Department and local Fishers’ Associations, the initiative has facilitated the rescue and release of 23 whale sharks caught in fishing nets, to date.

Sand art depicting whale shark on Kavaratti Beach | Photograph by Madhumay Mallik

“We extend our gratitude to the Wildlife Trust of India for bringing the whale shark conservation campaign to Lakshadweep. Through this initiative, we strive to raise awareness about the importance of our marine ecosystem and the measures needed to protect it,” said Syed Ali, a retired Wildlife Warden of Lakshadweep.

Another pressing concern is the increasing plastic pollution in marine environments, which poses a significant threat to filter feeders like whale sharks. WTI is actively working with local communities to promote cleaner seas, reinforcing conservation efforts that support the survival of these gentle giants.

The ‘Save The Whale Shark‘ campaign continues to build momentum, fostering greater community participation and awareness essential for the long-term conservation of these endangered marine species along India’s coastline.