Are India’s dugongs thriving? Scientists recorded large population of 270 dugongs along Tamil Nadu coast

Dugongs (Image: Canva)

• Tamil Nadu coast hosts 270 dugongs, India's largest population of the species.
• Active breeding and stable numbers signal hope for dugong survival.
• A Dugong Conservation Centre is being built in Manora, Tamil Nadu.

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Tamil Nadu’s coastal waters are home to a thriving population of dugongs, India’s rare “sea cows.” Recent surveys reveal 270 dugongs along the Palk Bay and Gulf of Mannar coastlines. This positive trend comes from years of dedicated conservation by the Wildlife Institute of India and the Tamil Nadu Forest Department. Active breeding has been confirmed, signalling hope for the long-term survival of this endangered species.

Are Dugong found in India? 

Dugongs are marine mammals, often called sea cows due to their grazing. They feed primarily on seagrass, found in shallow coastal waters worldwide. In India, dugongs are found along the southeast coast and Andaman Islands.

Tamil Nadu is a major hotspot, especially Palk Bay and Gulf of Mannar. Andaman and Nicobar Islands also host small, scattered dugong populations rarely seen. These areas provide safe habitats with rich seagrass meadows and shallow waters. Dugongs are listed as vulnerable globally, making Indian populations extremely significant.

Dugong Numbers Reveal a Positive Trend

Tamil Nadu’s coast is home to 270 dugongs, the largest in India. Palk Bay houses 158 dugongs, while Gulf of Mannar hosts 112. Population surveys were conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII). The study was in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu Forest Department.

Findings indicate that dugongs in Tamil Nadu are stable and reproducing actively. Mother-calf pairs were spotted, showing healthy breeding and population growth. Experts say this is a significant milestone for India’s marine wildlife. Conservationists credit long-term monitoring and protection efforts for this outcome.

Conservation Programmes for Dugong Recovery

The Dugong Recovery Programme by WII is showing encouraging results. It receives funding support through India’s Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority. The Tamil Nadu Forest Department contributes proactive conservation and community engagement strategies.

Big big news in wildlife conservation ! The Population estimation of Dugongs undertaken by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in TN with collaboration with the Forest Department, has estimated a total population of 270 dugongs along the Tamil Nadu coast including 158 dugongs… pic.twitter.com/9E2HjPhhf4

— Supriya Sahu IAS (@supriyasahuias) February 5, 2026

Local communities participate actively in protecting the dugongs and their habitats. Community patrols help prevent illegal fishing and habitat destruction effectively. Conservationists emphasise that protection is key for long-term dugong survival. Population stability depends on habitat preservation and community cooperation equally.

India’s First Dugong Conservation Centre

A state-of-the-art Dugong Conservation Centre is being built at Manora. The project is located in Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, India. It will cost Rs 40.94 crore, supported by the World Bank. The centre aims to combine research, public awareness, and community participation. Scientists will study dugong behaviour, habitat needs, and population trends carefully. The centre will also host workshops for students and marine enthusiasts.

Future of Dugong Protection in India

Experts are optimistic about the long-term survival of dugongs in India. Combined efforts of WII, TN Forest Department, and local communities succeed. Monitoring, research and habitat protection remain the cornerstones of conservation. This project could become a model for marine mammal conservation globally.

Tamil Nadu’s dugongs now represent hope for species once considered endangered. With continued efforts, scientists hope populations will grow steadily over time. The future of India’s dugongs looks promising, protected and thriving safely.