World Turtle Day 2025: India’s turtle species and Schedule I cover
Why in the news
World Turtle Day is being observed on 23 May 2025 to draw attention to the protection of turtles and tortoises. It also puts the spotlight on India’s turtle diversity and legal protection.
Key facts
- World Turtle Day falls on 23 May each year; it was started in 2000 and sponsored by American Tortoise Rescue.
- Its goal is to encourage people to celebrate and protect turtles, tortoises and their disappearing habitats.
- India is home to 30 freshwater turtle species; 26 of them are in Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
- India has five marine turtle species, all in Schedule I.
- Assam, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh show high turtle diversity.
- A Turtle Conservation and Research Centre funded by CAMPA is being set up in Pilibhit Tiger Reserve.
Marine turtles in India and IUCN status
| Species | IUCN Red List status |
|---|---|
| Olive Ridley | Vulnerable |
| Loggerhead | Vulnerable |
| Leatherback | Vulnerable |
| Green | Endangered |
| Hawksbill | Critically Endangered |
About Schedule I
Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 gives the highest level of legal protection to listed species, so the marine turtles in it are covered by the strictest provisions of the Act.
Exam angle
- Date and origin: 23 May, started in 2000.
- Know the five marine species and that the Hawksbill is Critically Endangered.
- Number to remember: 30 freshwater species, 26 in Schedule I.
- Uttar Pradesh is cited as a leader in setting up turtle conservation centres.