India’s first National Dolphin Research Centre finally a reality

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

In the news

The inauguration of the National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC) in Patna marks a significant step towards the conservation of the Gangetic Dolphin.
The NDRC aims to facilitate in-depth studies on various aspects of Gangetic dolphins, including behavior, survival skills, food habits, and mortality factors.
Led by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, this pioneering institute promises to advance scientific understanding and foster conservation efforts for this iconic species.

	Details
Discovery	Platanista gangetica also known as the “Tiger of the Ganges,” was officially discovered in 1801.
Habitat	Historically distributed in major river systems of India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, including the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu.
Features	Essentially blind, hunts by emitting ultrasonic sounds. Frequently found alone or in small groups, usually with a calf. Females larger, give birth once every 2-3 years.
Importance	Indicator of river ecosystem health. Designated National Aquatic Animal (2009) and State Aquatic Animal of Assam.
Major Threats	Unintentional killing in fishing gear. Poaching for dolphin oil. Habitat destruction due to development and pollution.
Protection Status	IUCN: Endangered CITES: Appendix I CMS: Appendix I Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972: Schedule I
Government Initiatives	Project Dolphin (2020) Vikramshila Ganges Dolphin Sanctuary in Bihar National Ganga River Dolphin Day (5th October)

Which one of the following is the national aquatic animal of India?

(a) Saltwater crocodile
(b) Olive ridley turtle
(c) Gangetic dolphin
(d) Gharial

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