A total of 216 rescued Indian Star Tortoises, scientifically named Geochelone elegans, were released into the wild at Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in Chandrapur district, Maharashtra, on 23 August 2026. The relocation marked the launch of Project STRIPES, a conservation initiative involving the Maharashtra Forest Department and the Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare.
Indian Star Tortoise
The Indian Star Tortoise is a terrestrial reptile found in India and Sri Lanka. It belongs to the family Testudinidae and is known for the star-like radiating patterns on its carapace. The species is listed in Schedule IV of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 in India, and it is protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve
Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve is one of Maharashtra’s major protected areas and is located in Chandrapur district. It includes the Tadoba National Park and the Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary, and it is managed under India’s tiger conservation framework. The reserve contains dry deciduous forest, bamboo patches, and water bodies that support a range of wildlife species.
Project STRIPES and Wildlife Repatriation
Project STRIPES stands for Star Tortoise Repatriation Initiative Protecting Endangered Species. It is a structured conservation programme for the rehabilitation, transport, and release of trafficked tortoises into suitable habitats. The tortoises involved in the release were seized during enforcement operations in Mumbai and Thane and were kept under care at facilities including the Thane Transit Treatment Centre, TCPCA, PAWS, and WWA.
Important Facts for Exams
- The Indian Star Tortoise is a reptile species with a domed shell and yellow radiating lines on the carapace.
- The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is the principal Indian law for protection of wild animals, birds, and plants.
- CITES regulates international trade in endangered species through appendices and permit-based controls.
- Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve is among the best-known tiger reserves in Maharashtra.
Transport and Rehabilitation Process
A 10-member team transported the tortoises over more than 800 kilometres in a specialised wildlife ambulance. The reptiles were monitored during the journey for hydration and health, and they underwent medical checks after arrival before release in batches. The release plan used a scientifically determined male-to-female ratio for population management.
