Operation Olivia, an initiative to protect Olive Ridley turtles, is undertaken by

Operation Olivia is a dedicated annual mission undertaken by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) to protect Olive Ridley turtles during their nesting season along the Odisha coast [1]. Initiated in the early 1980s, the operation involves intensive round-the-clock surveillance using surface patrol sorties and aerial missions to prevent illegal fishing and habitat disruption near mass nesting sites like Gahirmatha Beach and the Rushikulya river mouth. While the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) oversees broader conservation policies and the Sea Turtle Conservation Project [1][2], the specific enforcement and patrolling initiative known as 'Operation Olivia' is the responsibility of the Indian Coast Guard. These efforts are crucial as Olive Ridley turtles are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and face significant threats from mechanized trawlers and gillnetters during their migratory period.

Sources

1. [1] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 16: Conservation Efforts > 16.9.1 Sea.Thrtle Project > p. 243
2. [2] https://mangroves.maharashtra.gov.in/Site/SiteInfo/Pdf/NMTAP.pdf