In its opening statement at the International Whaling Commission's 70th meeting, India stressed better scientific data and wider cooperation to protect whales and other cetaceans.

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• India delivered its opening statement on Monday, September 28, at IWC-70, being held in Hobart, Australia, until October 2.
• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said India stressed collaboration among range countries, scientific institutions and international organisations.
• India said better information on population status, distribution, movements, breeding ecology and threats is essential for effective conservation measures.
• It reaffirmed support for scientific studies and evidence-based approaches to cetacean management.
• India called for greater cooperation among governments, researchers and local communities to develop practical and locally appropriate solutions to threats.
• It said the Commission's future work should stay guided by science-based priorities, international cooperation and practical measures.
• Cetaceans found in Indian waters receive the highest level of legal protection under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• Several Marine Protected Areas have been notified to protect whales, dolphins, dugongs, sharks, rays, turtles and corals.
• Project Dolphin, announced on August 15, 2020, aims to conserve both riverine and oceanic dolphin species.
• India has been an IWC member since 1981, and the meeting's agenda includes a proposed South Atlantic Whale Sanctuary and resolutions on vessel strikes and strandings.