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Calm Sea

About us

Established in 2007, OMCAR is dedicated to the conservation of coastal ecosystems and enhancing the well-being of communities along Palk Bay.

Mission: Foster conservation and sustainable livelihoods in Palk Bay.

Vision: Drive participatory conservation and sustainable livelihoods by collaborating with local fishing communities and the government to preserve coastal ecosystems and promote sustainable fisheries in Palk Bay.

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Award for submission of First Motion for IUCN World Conservation Congress, Abu Dhabi, October, 2025
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) formally recognized and appreciated the OMCAR Foundation at the IUCN World Conservation Congress held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, from 9–15 October 2025, for submitting the Congress’s first motion. The Certificate of Appreciation was received by Dr. V. Balaji, Director of the OMCAR Foundation. The motion, titled “Recognising India’s First Dugong Conservation Reserve,” was officially adopted at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, marking a significant milestone in marine mammal conservation efforts in India.

Strengthening Conservation: Workshop on Coastal Ecosystems, Sea Turtle, and Dugong Conservation Techniques
In a dedicated effort to build conservation capacity, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department and OMCAR Foundation organized a five-day workshop for frontline forest staff from coastal divisions across Tamil Nadu. The workshop featured expert-led sessions and hands-on field activities focused on mangrove, seagrass, and coral reef restoration, along with sea turtle and dugong conservation. This initiative aimed to strengthen on-ground skills and promote community-inclusive marine conservation efforts.

What's new

Embracing Sustainability: Velivayal Village's Palmyra Leaf Nursery Bags Initiative
In a remarkable move towards sustainability, the marginalized fisherman community of Velivayal Village embarked on a transformative journey with the OMCAR Foundation. Together, they introduced an innovative solution to combat plastic pollution by replacing traditional plastic nursery bags with environmentally friendly Palmyra leaf alternatives.

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Awards & Recognition

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OMCAR Foundation 15th Year Anniversary Documentary - 2022
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Blue Champions Award Uptake Stories: OMCAR Foundation, India
Dugong washed ashore in Palk Bay 1st April 2017
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OUR
STORIES

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