News

Category — GS Paper 3 ///Published — 2026-09-29 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Rapid Fire CA, Conservation, Environment & Ecology ///Category — GS Paper 3 ///Published — 2026-09-29 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Rapid Fire CA, Conservation, Environment & Ecology ///

News · GS Paper 3

India's Cetacean Conservation Push at IWC-70

At the 70th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC-70) in Hobart, Australia, India reaffirmed its commitment to whale and cetacean conservation, stressing science-based approaches and international cooperation. India, an IWC member since 1981, protects cetaceans under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, and runs initiatives like Project Dolphin and focused conservation of the Arabian Sea humpback whale.

2026-09-29

Published

—

Source

Quiz Questions

Article

India at IWC-70: Key Highlights

India reaffirmed its commitment to the conservation of whales and other cetaceans at the 70th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC-70), held in Hobart, Australia.

India's Stand

Cetacean conservation requires science-based approaches, international cooperation and practical measures to address threats faced by whales, dolphins and related species.
Need for improved scientific information on cetacean population status, distribution, movements, breeding ecology and threats to support informed conservation decisions.
Stressed collaboration among range countries, scientific institutions, governments, researchers and local communities to develop effective, locally suitable conservation strategies.

International Whaling Commission (IWC)

Established under the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling, signed in Washington, D.C., on 2nd December 1946.
Serves as the global body for the management of whaling and conservation of whales.
IWC-70 coincides with the 80th anniversary of the Convention's signing.
The IWC currently has 89 member governments; India has been a member since 1981.

India's Conservation Measures

Cetaceans in Indian waters receive the highest legal protection under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 (all cetaceans listed in Schedule I).
Establishment of Marine Protected Areas.
Launch of Project Dolphin for conservation of dolphins, whales, porpoises and aquatic ecosystems.
Special focus on the Arabian Sea humpback whale, identified among 25 species for focused conservation efforts.
India supports future IWC work based on science, cooperation and practical conservation action.

Significance

Reinforces India's role in global marine biodiversity governance and multilateral environmental agreements.
Aligns with India's domestic commitments under wildlife law and species-specific programmes like Project Dolphin.
Highlights the balance between development, livelihoods of coastal communities and conservation in marine ecosystems.