The dugong, popularly known as the sea cow, is among the most vulnerable marine species found in the shallow coastal waters of the Indian Ocean. Once abundant, dugong populations have seen a sharp decline due to habitat loss, destructive fishing practices, pollution, and coastal development. India, home to some of the last viable dugong populations in South Asia, has recognized the urgency of protecting this gentle giant.

Dugongs play a vital ecological role as grazers of seagrass meadows, which are crucial for maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. Their decline is not just a species concern but also a warning sign of the degradation of India’s marine habitats. Recent conservation initiatives—such as designating marine protected areas, restoring seagrass beds, and involving local fishing communities—aim to halt their disappearance.

The Indian government has declared the dugong a Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, granting it the highest level of protection. Efforts in regions such as the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are particularly significant, as these areas are critical habitats for dugongs.

However, challenges remain. Illegal hunting, accidental entanglement in fishing nets, and climate change continue to threaten dugong survival. Conservationists stress the importance of community participation, stricter enforcement of fishing regulations, and greater awareness campaigns to protect the species.

Saving the dugong is about more than preventing extinction—it is about preserving the balance of marine ecosystems and safeguarding the livelihoods of coastal communities that depend on them. By ensuring that dugongs “swim to safety,” India can demonstrate its commitment to protecting marine biodiversity for generations to come.