Turtles and tortoises are robust aquatic, semi-aquatic and terrestrial reptiles that have a shell that protect their body from predators. Tortoises are known to live for more than 100 years and can grow to weigh over 300 kg. They lay hard-shelled eggs in excavated cavities underground and the young once receive no parental care. The land tortoises are usually herbivorous and sometimes feed on caracasses. The semi-aquatic and aquatic turtles are carnivorous and mostly feed on fish and even scavange on dead animals in water. India has 34 species of fresh water turtles and tortoises. There are 10 species of turtles and 1 species of tortoise is reported so far from Madhya Pradesh. Turtles and tortoises are the most exploited reptiles in the region. They are threatened, as their habitats are being increasingly fragmented, destroyed and polluted. They are being hunted, eaten, traded and exploited in overwhelming numbers. They are used for food, pets and traditional medicine with no room for sustainability. Nearly all species of Asian freshwater turtles and tortoises are affected by trade. It is estimated that more than 60% of those species have suffered population decline because of trade. About 80% of native Asian freshwater turtles are now listed as threatened by IUCN criteria. More than 50% of all Asian freshwater turtles are listed as endangered by the same criteria. Almost all the 10 species of turtles and 1 species of tortoise is struggling in Madhya Pradesh also. One of the crucial requirements for reversing this trend is empowering people who are concerned, with information.