India Tags First-Ever Ganges River Dolphin in Assam

December 20, 2024

India has marked milestone in wildlife conservation by tagging a Ganges River Dolphin in Assam. This unprecedented event is part of Project Dolphin, initiated by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and other organizations, which aims to enhance knowledge about this endangered species.

Project Overview

Project Dolphin is a conservation initiative inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on understanding and protecting the Ganges River Dolphin, which is India’s National Aquatic Animal. The project is a collaborative effort involving the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), the Assam Forest Department, and Aaranyak, with funding from the National CAMPA Authority.

Tagging Process

The tagged dolphin is a healthy male, released after thorough monitoring. Advanced lightweight technology was used to attach the tag, which transmits signals to satellites. This technology is designed to minimize disruption to the dolphin’s natural behavior, despite its brief surfacing time.

The primary goal of tagging is to gather vital data on the dolphins’ seasonal and migratory patterns, habitat use, and behaviour. This information is crucial for addressing knowledge gaps about the species, especially in fragmented river systems.

Ecological Importance

Ganges River Dolphins play a critical role in river ecosystems. They are apex predators and umbrella species, contributing to the overall health of aquatic biodiversity. Protecting them also supports the livelihoods of local communities relying on these river systems.

Plans are underway to extend the tagging initiative to other states where Ganges River Dolphins are found. This expansion aims to create a comprehensive understanding of their population dynamics and habitat requirements.

Commitment to Conservation

This groundbreaking effort puts stress on India’s dedication to wildlife conservation. It sets a new benchmark for protecting endangered species and is expected to lead to effective, evidence-based conservation strategies for the long-term survival of the Ganges River Dolphin.

GKToday Notes:
Ganges River Dolphin: This species is India’s National Aquatic Animal. They rely on echolocation due to near blindness. Their population has drastically declined over the past century.
Project Dolphin: This initiative aims to conserve the Ganges River Dolphin. It was inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The project involves multiple organisations for comprehensive conservation efforts.
National CAMPA Authority: This authority provides funding for wildlife conservation projects. It supports initiatives like Project Dolphin. Its focus is on improving ecological integrity and biodiversity in India.
Aaranyak: Aaranyak is a non-profit organisation involved in wildlife conservation. It collaborates with government bodies for ecological research. The organisation aims to protect endangered species and promote biodiversity.

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