Chennai, March 14 -- The Tamil Nadu government will initiate steps to notify Dhanushkodi, serving as a key stopover for migratory birds, as a Greater Flamingo Sanctuary ensuring the protection of migratory wetland birds and their natural ecosystem, Finance Minister Thangam Thennarsu told the State Assembly on Friday.

Presenting the Budget for the year 2025-26 in the House, he said with a 1,076 km coastline, Tamil Nadu boasts diverse marine ecosystems, including tidal forests, coral reefs, and seagrass beds.

These ecosystems not only support coastal communities by providing environmental and economic benefits but also serve as natural barriers against sea erosion and rising sea levels.

"Recognizing our bounden duty to protect th...