World Crocodile Day:
On World Crocodile Day (17th June), India commemorates 50 years of its Crocodile Conservation Project (CCP) (1975–2025), with Odisha emerging as the epicentre of this pioneering ecological effort.
- Odisha is the only Indian state to host wild populations of all three native crocodilian species (Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) and Saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)).
- India launched its CCP at Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park with support from United Nations Development Programme and the Food and Agriculture Organisation.
- It adopted the “rear and release” method, created protected habitats like Bhitarkanika and Satkosia Tiger Reserve, and promoted captive breeding and community awareness, making it a national model for crocodilian conservation.
- Crocodiles are the largest surviving reptiles, primarily inhabit freshwater swamps, lakes, and rivers, with one saltwater species.
