June 23, 2026
Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) of Government of Tamil Nadu commissioned a study project under Tamil Nadu Fishnet Initiative (TNFI) to collect baseline data on discarded fishing nets and other plastic debris littering the coast of Tamil Nadu. A comprehensive baseline survey was conducted by Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute (SDMRI) along the shores of 52 fishing-dominant villages, selected for their importance in fishing, along the 1,076 km long Tamil Nadu coast.
TNFI is one of Tamil Nadu’s key initiatives in addressing fisheries-related marine litter. Its creation was announced during the State’s 2023-24 budget session. The main objectives of TNFI are (1) to collect and recycle Abandoned, Lost, or Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG) and ghost nets;(2) to protect marine biodiversity; and (3) to support fisher livelihoods.
The publication “Marine Litter on Tamil Nadu Coast, India Status, Impacts and Management Strategies” is the compilation of collected data and other necessary related details. This publication was brought out by TNPCB in partnership with SDMRI, PwC and Recity.
Marine Litter on Tamil Nadu Coast, India: Status, Impacts and Management Strategies
Socio‑Ecological and Economic Valuation of Artificial‑Reef‑Driven Restoration of Vaan Island, Gulf of Mannar, Tamil Nadu, India
Coral Reef Restoration in Tamil Nadu, India: Guidelines for Practitioners
Blue Carbon Wealth of Tamil Nadu, India: The Role of Coastal Ecosystems as Carbon Sinks
SDMRI is associating with Tamil Nadu Forest Department in restoring Kariyachalli Island and its surrounding degraded habitats (coral reefs and seagrass beds) in the Gulf of Mannar, India under the World Bank funded Tamil Nadu Sustainably Harnessing Ocean Resources and Blue Economy (TNSHORE) project