India has achieved a significant milestone in wildlife conservation with the first-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica). Conducted in Assam, this initiative marks a major advancement under Project Dolphin, led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). The collaborative effort of the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), the Assam Forest Department, and the organization Aaranyak, funded by the National CAMPA Authority, aims to deepen the understanding of the species’ ecological needs, migratory patterns, and habitat use.
Summary/Static | Details |
Why in the news? | Historic Dolphin Tagging Initiative in Assam |
Event | First-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges River Dolphin |
Significance | – First instance of tagging for the species globally – Major milestone under Project Dolphin |
Collaborating Organizations | – Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) – Wildlife Institute of India (WII) – Assam Forest Department – Aaranyak |
Funding Authority | National CAMPA Authority |
Objective | – Study habitat needs, seasonal and migratory patterns, and home-range dynamics – Fill knowledge gaps for evidence-based conservation |
Technology Used | Lightweight satellite tags compatible with Argos systems |
Species Details | – National Aquatic Animal of India – Apex predator in river ecosystems – Relies on echolocation due to near blindness |
Ecological Importance | – Umbrella species for river ecosystems – Ensures ecological balance and supports aquatic biodiversity |
Challenges | – Declining population due to habitat fragmentation – Elusive behavior (brief surfacing time of 5-30 seconds) |
Future Plans | – Expand tagging to other states within the species’ range – Develop a comprehensive conservation action plan under Project Dolphin |
Statements from Leaders | – Bhupender Yadav: “Historic milestone for the species and India.” – WII Director: “Facilitates evidence-based conservation.” – Dr. Kolipakam: “Vital for sustaining biodiversity.” |
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