Discuss the main highlights of Chilka Bachao Andolan.

Chilka Bachao Andolan (Save Chilka Movement) was a grassroots environmental movement launched in the 1980s to protect the Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, located in the Indian state of Odisha. The movement emerged in response to various threats facing the lake, including pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction, and encroachment. Here are the main highlights of the Chilka Bachao Andolan:

1. Conservation Concerns: The Chilika Lake faced multiple environmental challenges, including industrial pollution, agricultural runoff, illegal fishing practices, and unsustainable development activities. Concerned local communities, environmentalists, and civil society organizations came together to address these threats and advocate for the conservation of the lake's ecological integrity and biodiversity.

2. Community Mobilization: The movement mobilized local communities, fisherfolk, farmers, and other stakeholders living around the Chilika Lake to raise awareness about environmental issues and advocate for sustainable management practices. Community leaders, activists, and NGOs played a crucial role in organizing protests, rallies, and campaigns to highlight the importance of preserving the lake for future generations.

3. Policy Advocacy: The Chilka Bachao Andolan put pressure on government authorities and policymakers to take action to protect the lake and enforce existing environmental laws and regulations. Through lobbying, advocacy, and public pressure, the movement influenced policy decisions and secured government support for conservation initiatives, including the declaration of Chilika as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 1981.

4. Legal Intervention: The movement utilized legal strategies to challenge activities detrimental to the lake's health and biodiversity. Activists filed petitions, lawsuits, and public interest litigations (PILs) in courts to halt illegal fishing practices, regulate industrial pollution, and prevent encroachment on the lake's fragile ecosystems. Legal victories helped strengthen the legal framework for environmental protection and conservation in the region.

5. Successes and Legacy: The Chilka Bachao Andolan achieved significant successes in raising awareness, mobilizing communities, and advocating for policy reforms to protect the Chilika Lake. The movement contributed to improved governance, enhanced community participation, and strengthened environmental management practices in the region. Today, Chilika remains a symbol of successful community-led conservation efforts and serves as a vital habitat for migratory birds, aquatic species, and local livelihoods.