70th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC-70)

Why in News?

India underlined the need for the conservation of whales and other cetaceans at the 70th meeting of the International Whaling Commission (IWC-70) being held in Hobart, Australia, from 28 September to 2 October 2026. India emphasised continued collaboration among range countries, scientific institutions and international organisations, along with improved scientific information on cetacean populations, distribution, movements, breeding ecology and threats for strengthening conservation measures and informed decision-making.

About International Whaling Commission (IWC)

The International Whaling Commission (IWC) was established under the International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling, signed in Washington, D.C., in 1946. It serves as the international body dealing with the management of whaling and the conservation of whales. The IWC has 89 member governments.

India has been a member of the IWC since 1981 and has played an active role in whale conservation.

About Cetaceans

Cetaceans are a group of aquatic mammals that includes whales, dolphins and porpoises. There are around 90 recognised species of cetaceans, including both toothed and other whale species.

In India, cetacean species occurring in Indian waters receive the highest level of legal protection under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. India has also notified several Marine Protected Areas to conserve marine biodiversity, including whales, dolphins, dugongs, sharks, rays, turtles and corals.

The Government of India has additionally launched Project Dolphin, which adopts a holistic approach to conserving dolphins, whales, porpoises and their associated aquatic ecosystems.

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