Olive ridley turtle nesting in India has surged to about a million, driven by conservation efforts and community action.

Olive ridley sea turtles are rebounding in India, with nesting numbers rising from under 100,000 two decades ago to about a million in the most recent season, particularly in coastal areas like Velas and Guhagar. Conservation efforts, including hatchery programs, beach patrols, and community-led initiatives such as the Velas Turtle Festival, have helped protect nests and boost hatchling survival. Former poachers now support conservation, and eco-tourism provides economic incentives. Despite progress, threats like pollution, plastic waste, habitat loss, and development pressures persist, and experts warn that growing populations could lead to complacency and weakened protections, underscoring the need for sustained vigilance.