Iran proposes regional plan to protect Caspian seal

Iran has proposed a regional conservation programme for the Caspian seal, with the initiative set to be discussed at a meeting of ministers from the Caspian Sea littoral states under the Tehran Convention.

The proposal by Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs combines scientific research, population monitoring and environmental conservation measures. It includes plans to expand rescue centres, train specialists and provide guidance to fishermen and residents of coastal areas.

The programme also calls for the analysis of biological samples to identify factors contributing to the decline of the Caspian seal population.

Iran opened its first specialist centre dedicated to the conservation, treatment and study of Caspian seals in Gilan Province in 2025. The centre supports veterinary research and the development of measures to protect the species.

The initiative comes as other BRICS countries and partner nations pursue conservation programmes for threatened species and ecosystems.

In India, the government has launched the Clouded Leopard Conservation Action Plan to protect one of Asia’s rarest wild cats. The programme focuses on habitat conservation, restoration of forest corridors, scientific monitoring and community participation. Fourteen priority conservation areas have been identified in northeastern India.

China has recorded an eastern pygmy otter in a new range in Hainan province. Experts said the presence of the species, which is sensitive to water quality and environmental conditions, could indicate improving ecosystems and progress in biodiversity conservation on the island.

Meanwhile, Kyrgyzstan plans to establish a scientific and rehabilitation centre on Lake Issyk-Kul dedicated to snow leopard conservation. The facility will conduct research, veterinary diagnostics, and animal rehabilitation, with a focus on recovering the snow leopard population and developing biodiversity conservation programmes.