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Context:
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has recognised Tamil Nadu’s Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay as a global model for marine biodiversity conservation during the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025.
Key Highlights:
- First Dugong Reserve of India: Declared in September 2022 under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
- Location & Size: Spread over 448.34 sq. km in northern Palk Bay, Tamil Nadu; includes 12,250 hectares of seagrass meadows.
- IUCN Recognition: Motion proposed by Omcar Foundation, supported by 98% of countries/agencies and 94.8% NGOs/research bodies.
- Species Focus: Dugongs (Dugong dugon), listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
- Ecological Role: Seagrass meadows provide feeding grounds, support biodiversity, and act as carbon sinks.