Gir Somnath: The Gujarat Forest Department, in collaboration with the Wildlife Trust of India, Tata Chemicals Limited, and the coastal fishing community, has undertaken significant efforts for the conservation of whale sharks along the 1600 km coastline of the state. The “Gujarat Whale Shark Day – 2023” was celebrated at Fisheries College, Veraval to raise awareness about the conservation and breeding of whale sharks.

Whale sharks are protected under forest department rules, and students from Choksi College presented a play titled ‘Save the Whale Shark’ at Fisheries College in Veraval here. The play aimed to inform about various government schemes related to marine activities.

During the event, experts discussed the use of technology and various devices to save whale sharks, providing valuable guidance. Additionally, a booklet titled “Whale Shark – Marine Wildlife Pride of Gujarat” was released by dignitaries.

In his speech, Chief Conservator of Forests, Junagadh, Dr. K. Ramesh highlighted the global efforts to save whale sharks and urged people worldwide to recognize their duty and contribute directly or indirectly. The species, once heavily hunted, has seen a significant turnaround in the last two decades, with increased conservation efforts. Dr. Ramesh commended the government’s initiatives and expressed optimism that continued efforts to follow the ecosystem would yield great results.

The whale shark, the world’s largest fish with a lifespan of 70 to 100 years, migrates annually from Porbandar-Dwarka to Mangarol, Somnath, and Sutrapada seas from October to March for feeding and birthing. Legal protection has been granted to this species, and various programs are underway to raise awareness among the public.

The event was attended by Chief Conservator of Forest Junagadh Dr. K Ramesh, Deputy Conservator of Forest Junagadh Akshay Joshi, Veraval Range Forest Officer KD Pampania, Fisheries College Principal Yusufzai, Fishermen Association President Tulsibhai Gohel, representatives from Wildlife Trust of India and Tata Chemicals, as well as senior officers and employees of the Forest Department and Coast Guard. DeshGujarat