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India Reaffirms Strong Support for Cetacean Conservation at IWC-70
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News18•28-09-2026, 20:15
India Reaffirms Strong Support for Cetacean Conservation at IWC-70
- •India reiterated its commitment to scientific studies and evidence-based approaches for cetacean conservation and management at the 70th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC-70) in Hobart, Australia.
- •India emphasized the need for continued collaboration among range countries, scientific institutions, and international organizations for effective cetacean conservation.
- •Improved scientific information on population status, distribution, movements, breeding ecology, and threats is crucial for strengthening conservation measures and informed decision-making.
- •India, a member of the IWC since 1981, highlighted that cetacean species in Indian waters are afforded the highest legal protection under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
- •Several Marine Protected Areas have been established in India to safeguard rich marine biodiversity, including whales, dolphins, dugongs, sharks, rays, turtles, and corals.
Key Questions Answered
India reaffirmed its support for scientific studies and evidence-based approaches to ensure that the conservation and management of cetaceans remain grounded in sound scientific understanding.
The 70th meeting of the International Whaling Commission is being held in Hobart, Australia, from September 28 to October 2.
Cetacean species occurring in Indian waters receive the highest level of legal protection under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
