Oceans cover over 70% of the planet, produce at least 50% of the Earth’s oxygen, support countless marine species, and are a vital source of food and livelihood for millions of people. However, our oceans are facing unprecedented challenges, ranging from coral bleaching and the decline of marine species to the mounting threat of plastic pollution.

World Ocean Day is celebrated globally on the 8^th of June every year to revisit our responsibility towards this magnificent ecosystem and the need for urgent and collective action. This year’s theme, “Catalysing Action for Our Ocean and Climate”, called on individuals, communities, and governments to step up efforts in ocean conservation, especially in the face of climate change, pollution, and overfishing.

Sensitisation workshop at Sri Dhurga Kalalayam, Kasargod | Photograph by Prasanth Siju

The Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), in collaboration with Sri Dhurga Kalalayam, conducted a sensitisation workshop for students from the fishing community in Bengara, located in Manjeshwar, Kasaragod district in Kerala. Bengara is a traditional fishing village near the Karnataka-Kerala border, known for its deep-rooted connection to the sea, with generations depending on fishing for their livelihood. The program commenced with a welcome address by Prasanth Siju, Manager of Sri Dhurga Kalalayam, followed by a session led by Jithin Jose, Assistant Field Officer at Wildlife Trust of India. Jithin spoke about the ecological importance of whale sharks and the significance of the ocean in celebration of World Ocean Day.

Drawing competion in Sri Dhurga Kalalayam, Kasargod on the occasion of World Oceans Day, 2025 | Photograph by Prasanth Siju

A drawing competition was also organised for fifty students after the session on the theme “The Importance of the Ocean.” In the junior category, Araya Kumar won the first prize, Sreehari secured second place, and Sreya Kumar came third. In the senior category, Ashin P.G. won the first prize, Adhiti Sathesh received second place, and Sreelakshmi K.S. came third. The prizes were distributed by Mr. Sivakumar Sreedharan, the local ward member of Bengara, and all participants received consolation prizes.

A similar sensitisation session was held later in the day for the fishermen community in Shiriya village, located in Manjeshwar Taluk in Kasaragod. Known for its multi-religious and multi-lingual population, Shiriya is home to a large fishing community. The session aimed to foster stronger community engagement and promote marine conservation, especially of species like whale sharks. During the interactions, fishers shared recent encounters with whale sharks in the region, providing valuable insights for ongoing conservation efforts. About 50 members from the community attended the session, making it a successful initiative to raise awareness and build rapport with the locals. WTI’s Pan-India Whale Shark Recovery Project in Kerala is supported by Oracle.

World Oceans Day 2025 celebration in Mithapur Beach, Gujarat | Photograph by Vaibhav Patni / TCL