By Our Correspondent
BERHAMPUR/BHUBANESWAR:A training programme on Olive Ridley turtles and upcoming hatchling activities was successfully conducted at the Conference Hall of Bhabinipur Gram Panchayat on 20th April 2026. The programme was organized by Youth for Social Development with support from Youth 4 Water Plus, and technical training support from Dakhina Foundation.
During the session, Marine Flagship Project Associates Rahul and Saran provided detailed insights on the different species of turtles found in India, with special emphasis on Olive Ridley turtles. They explained their ecological importance, life cycle, nesting behavior, and the hatchling process. The trainers also highlighted the unique phenomenon of mass nesting (Arribada) at Rushikulya River in Ganjam district.
The programme was coordinated by Barsha Rani Maharana, Climate Campaign Coordinator, and Sudeep Kumar Chakraborty(WASH Project Coordinator). Subhrasima Mohanty, Social Behaviour Change and Communication Officer of Youth 4 Water Plus, motivated the participants to actively engage in volunteering efforts, particularly in climate action initiatives.
Er. Ranjit, Sarpanch of Bhabinipur Gram Panchayat, appreciated the initiative and encouraged continued efforts toward environmental conservation.
A total of 30 volunteers from various organizations participated in the training programme. The session was interactive, with participants actively engaging and clarifying their queries regarding hatchling management and conservation practices.
The programme was smoothly coordinated by YSD Block Coordinators Sasikanta Pradhan, Mamali Panda, Alok Nayak, Geetanjali Pattnaik, Sanjit, and Usha Devi.
This training programme was specifically designed to prepare volunteers for the upcoming hatchling events, where they will actively contribute to the safe release and conservation of Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings.
