On June 5, 2025, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin officially declared the Dhanushkodi lagoon a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary during World Environment Day celebrations in Chennai. This 5.3-square-kilometer (524.8-hectare) area, located at the southern tip of Rameswaram Island, is a crucial stopover for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway. It supports a diverse range of bird species, including both greater and lesser flamingos, herons, egrets, sandpipers, plovers, and terns. Additionally, the lagoon serves as a nursery for marine life such as fish, mollusks, and crustaceans, benefiting local fisheries. The region also hosts 47 plant species, notably mangroves like Avicennia and Rhizophora, which are vital for coastal stability and habitat protection.

This sanctuary designation aims to protect these vital ecosystems, boost conservation efforts, and promote sustainable tourism and community employment while raising awareness about wetland preservation and the importance of migratory bird protection.

The Tamil Nadu government's commitment to environmental conservation is further demonstrated through initiatives such as the establishment of a 'Raptors Research Foundation' with an allocation of ₹1 crore from the Endangered Species Conservation Fund. This foundation will focus on conserving birds of prey—such as eagles, hawks, and vultures—whose presence in regions like the Nilgiris, Coimbatore, Tirunelveli, Madurai-Arittapatti, and Pallikaranai serves as a vital indicator of ecological health. Additionally, a biodiversity park spanning 1,000 hectares is planned in the Chengam landscape of Tiruvannamalai district, and a 'Marine Resource Foundation' with an initial funding of ₹50 crore will focus on protecting Tamil Nadu’s 1,076 km coastline, emphasizing mangrove conservation and sustainable fishing practices.