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17 June, 2025
On June 17, 2025, India commemorated the 50th anniversary of its Crocodile Conservation Project on World Crocodile Day, highlighting significant strides in safeguarding the nation's native crocodilian species.
Launched in 1975 in Odisha's Bhitarkanika National Park, the project aimed to protect and rejuvenate India's crocodile populations. Collaborating with the UNDP and FAO, the initiative focused on captive breeding and habitat protection. Today, Bhitarkanika is home to over 1,800 saltwater crocodiles, marking a remarkable recovery from just 95 individuals in 1975.
Odisha's program stands out as a national model, encompassing three species:
This comprehensive approach makes Odisha the only Indian state to host all three native crocodilian species in the wild .
Despite conservation successes, the growing crocodile populations have led to increased human-wildlife interactions. Since 2014, Bhitarkanika has witnessed 50 crocodile-related fatalities. In response, authorities have installed barricades at 120 river ghats and implemented public awareness programs to mitigate conflicts .
To mark the golden jubilee, Odisha organized a week-long celebration featuring seminars, workshops, photo exhibitions, and competitions. These events not only honored the project's achievements but also aimed to educate the public on the importance of crocodile conservation .
The success of Odisha's initiative has inspired similar efforts nationwide. In Uttar Pradesh, the Kukrail Gharial Rehabilitation Centre in Lucknow has contributed to a significant increase in the gharial population, from approximately 200 in 1975 to between 2,000 and 2,500 today.
These collective efforts underscore India's commitment to preserving its rich biodiversity and ensuring the survival of its native crocodilian species.
