In a significant move towards wildlife conservation, India has taken a major step to protect its river ecosystems, The country has inaugurated a special center dedicated to studying and conserving a unique aquatic species. This initiative aims to improve the health of one of the most important rivers, ensuring that its biodiversity is preserved for future generations. The center will also raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding aquatic life.
India’s First National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC) Inauguration
India has launched its first National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC), a groundbreaking initiative to study and conserve the endangered Gangetic dolphin. Located in Patna, Bihar, this center is the first of its kind in Asia and aims to protect the river dolphins and their habitat.
Purpose of NDRC
The NRDC focuses on the study and conservation of the Gangetic dolphin, also known as Susu. It will serve as a hub for scientists and researchers working on projects to safeguard these dolphins, ensuring their survival in the Ganges River and other nearby river systems.
About the Gangetic Dolphin
The Gangetic dolphin is India’s National Aquatic Animal. It is one of the few species of freshwater dolphins in the world and can be found in the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu rivers systems of Nepal, India and Bangladesh. The dolphin is blind, relying on echolocation to hunt for food. It uses ultrasonic sounds that bounce off fish and prey, creating an image in its mind.
Protection Status of Gangetic Dolphin
The Gangetic Dolphin is classified as “Endangered” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which offers the highest level of protection. The dolphin is also part of Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which prohibits international trade of endangered species.
Key Features of Gangetic Dolphins
Known locally as Susu, these dolphins are frequently alone or in small groups. A mother and calf often travel together, and females are larger than males. The dolphins give birth only once every two to three years and each time, they have a single calf. Their blindness is compensated by their ability to use echolocation for hunting and navigation in the river.
Conservation Initiatives
India has launched several initiatives to protect the Gangetic dolphin. The Project Dolphin was introduced in 2021 to enhance conservation efforts for river dolphins. Protected areas, such as the Vikramshila Dolphin Sanctuary in Bihar, have been setup. Additionally, National Dolphin Day is celebrated on 5th October each year to raise awareness about the species’ conservation. The government has also developed a comprehensive action plan for dolphin conservation from 2022 to 2047.
Impact of the NDRC
The National Dolphin Research Centre plays a crucial role in protecting the Gangetic dolphin and its habitat. By conducting research and raising awareness, the NDRC aims to support the survival of this unique species in India’s rivers. With this initiative, India hopes to set an example for the protection of endangered aquatic life across the region.
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