National Workshop on Sea Turtle Nesting Phenology and Conservation in Pulicat ( NWSTNP-2025)

January 31st and February 1st 2025

Organized by Research and Education for Environmental Foundation (REEF)

Pulicat, Tamil Nadu

1. Introduction

The National Workshop on Sea Turtle Nesting Phenology and Conservation, organized by the Research and Education for Environmental Foundation (REEF), was successfully conducted at Pulicat, Tamil Nadu. The workshop aimed to bring together scientists, conservationists, students, and NGOs to exchange knowledge and discuss strategies for sea turtle conservation and marine biodiversity protection.
This two-day event featured:

✅ Interactive discussions on conservation strategies
✅ Keynote speeches by leading researchers
✅ Competitions to engage young minds
✅ A boating trip and field visit to nesting sites
✅ A turtle walk for hands-on conservation experience
✅ Community engagement activities

The workshop strengthened participants' understanding of turtle nesting behaviors, climate change impacts, and conservation techniques, reinforcing their commitment to environmental sustainability.

2. Workshop Participants

A total of 32 participants attended the workshop, representing universities, colleges, NGOs, and research institutions from across Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.

Participating Institutions:
1. Dr. MGR Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri
2. Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore
3. Auxilium College, Vellore
4. Government Arts College, Krishnagiri
5. Pachaiyappa’s College for Men, Kanchipuram
6. Pulicat National Matriculation School, Pulicat
7. CReNIEO
8. Live in Better World Charitable Trust, Puducherry
9. Voorhees College, Vellore
10. Muthurangam Government Arts College, Vellore
11. Islamiah Women’s Arts and Science College, Vaniyambadi
12. NGO from Kanyakumari
13. Madras Christian College, Tambaram
14. Nandanam Arts and Science College, Chennai
15. Presidency College, Chennai
16. Quaid-e-Millath College, Chennai
17. RV Government Arts College, Chengalpet

3. Day 1: Workshop Sessions & Activities

Inauguration & Welcome Address The workshop commenced with the Lighting of the Lamp by Founder of REEF Mr.M.Sivanesan and followed by Secretary Mr.D.Jegastar, symbolizing the spread of knowledge.
Mr. Vinoth A, Treasurer of REEF, delivered the Welcome Address, emphasizing:
✅ The importance of sea turtle conservation in Pulicat
✅ The need for collaboration between researchers, conservationists, and the local community

4. Expert Talks & Keynote Speeches Special Invited Talk: Dr. S. Samuel Sukumar

Topic: Ecological Interactions and Sea Turtles in Pulicat and Kattupalli Islands Key Takeaways:
Impact of human activities on nesting habitats
Importance of coastal ecosystem conservation
Strategies for restoration of nesting sites

Keynote Speech: Dr. K. Mahesh Kumar

Topic: Sea Turtle Conservation Challenges – A Scientific Outlook Key Highlights:
Tracking sea turtles through satellite telemetry
Threats from fishing nets & need for Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs)
Solutions for mitigating human-wildlife conflict

Special Invited Talk: Dr. J. Logamanya Tilak

Topic: Role of Pulicat Estuarine Biological Research Centre (MCC-PEBRC) in Conservation Insights:
Biodiversity research in Pulicat
Community-driven conservation models
Education partnerships with schools and colleges

Keynote Speech: Dr. N. Thirunavukkarasu

Topic: Climate Change & Its Impact on Sea Turtles Discussion Points:
Rising temperatures affecting hatchling sex ratios
Sea level rise leading to habitat loss
Adaptive conservation strategies (e.g., artificial shading for nests)

Chief Guest Address: Dr. C. Chennakrishnan

Topics Covered:
Legal framework for sea turtle protection in India
Policy-making for conservation
Involvement of youth in research & advocacy

Role of REEF in Sea Turtle Conservation: Dr. S. Ramachandraprabhu

Dr. Ramachandraprabhu highlighted:
REEF’s conservation projects in Pulicat
Youth involvement in biodiversity conservation
Future research initiatives for marine ecosystems

5. Competitions & Engagement Activities

Student Competitions:
🏆 Quiz Competition
🏆 Poster Presentation
🏆 Photography Competition

Winners:

✅ Quiz Competition – Pulicat National Matriculation School
✅ Best Photography Award – Pachaiyappa’s College for Men, Kanchipuram
✅ Best Model Presentation – Pulicat National Matriculation School
✅ Best Model Presentation – Miss. Raihana, Pulicat National Matriculation School
✅ Best Model Presentation – Miss. Roobica, St.Joseph Matric Higher Secondary School

6. Boating & Nesting Site Visit

🚤 After the competitions, participants took a boating trip to the Pulicat Estuarine Biological Research Centre (MCC-PEBRC) to learn about:
✅ Ongoing research on Pulicat’s estuarine biodiversity
✅ Conservation efforts for marine species in the region
🌊 Following the visit, the group proceeded to Pulicat Beach to observe sea turtle nesting activity. Highlights included:

✅ Identification of potential nesting areas
✅ Discussion on habitat conditions for nesting turtles
✅ Understanding the role of estuarine ecosystems in conservation

7. Evening Activities: Campfire & Turtle Walk

🔥 Networking Dinner & Campfire – Facilitated conservation discussions 🐢 Turtle Walk (10:00 PM - 4:00 AM) included:
✅ Exploration of nesting sites
✅ Identification of turtle tracks
✅ Discussions on conservation strategies

8. Day 2: Valedictory & Certificate Distribution

Chief Guest Address: Dr. C. Chennakrishnan
Dr. Chennakrishnan praised participants for their commitment to conservation efforts, encouraging continued research and engagement.

Certificate & Prize Distribution

🏅 Competition Prizes and Participation Certificates were distributed by Dr. C. Chennakrishnan
🏆 Participation Certificates were distributed by Ms. Sheeja Headmistress, Pulicat National Matriculation School

9. Feedback Session & Vote of Thanks

Participants expressed appreciation for:
✅ Informative expert sessions
✅ Hands-on experience through the Turtle Walk
✅ Opportunities for networking & collaboration

Dr. S. Ramachandraprabhu delivered the Vote of Thanks, acknowledging:

Chief Guest & speakers for their contributions
Participants for their active engagement
Organizing team for their dedication

10. Conclusion