Chennai, May 8 -- In a landmark development for marine conservation, Tamil Nadu has recorded the highest-ever release of Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings this nesting season, with 2,29,432 baby turtles making their way into the sea.

This year's figures mark a nearly fourfold rise in five years, as there were just 25,551 hatchlings in 2019-2020.

Speaking to ANI, Supriya Sahu, Tamil Nadu's Additional Chief Secretary of Environment, Climate Change and Forests, said the milestone results from consistent groundwork, targeted interventions, and stronger collaboration with coastal communities.

"The consistent rise reflects successful turtle management and improved coastal protection. It was the result of multiple coordinated conservation effort...