4th March 2025 (14 Topics)

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First-Ever Estimate of Gangetic Dolphins in India

Context

For the first time, a comprehensive estimate of Gangetic dolphins, India's only riverine dolphins, has been conducted. The survey found 6,327 dolphins in the Ganga and its tributaries. However, due to differences in counting methods used in previous studies, this number does not indicate whether their population is increasing or decreasing.

Key Findings of the Survey

Total dolphins recorded: 6,327
Species count: 6,324 Ganges river dolphins and 3 Indus river dolphins
State-wise distribution:
- Most dolphins found in Uttar Pradesh, followed by Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam
Regional distribution:
- 3,275 in the Ganga main stem
- 2,414 in Ganga tributaries
- 584 in the Brahmaputra main stem
- 412 in Brahmaputra tributaries
- 101 in the river Beas

The survey began in 2021 and covered 8,507 km of river stretches.

**About Ganges river dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica)**

The Ganges river dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica) is a freshwater dolphin species found in the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and their tributaries.
It is one of only five true freshwater dolphin species in the world.
Key Features
- Blind: They rely on echolocation (sound waves) to navigate and hunt.
- Solitary nature: Usually seen alone or in small groups.
- Breathe through a blowhole: They surface briefly every few minutes.
- Indicator of river health: Their presence signifies a clean and healthy river ecosystem.
Habitat and Distribution
- Found in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
- In India, major populations are in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Assam, and West Bengal.
Conservation Efforts
- Listed as "Endangered" by the IUCN Red List.
- Declared India’s National Aquatic Animal in 2009.
- Protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (highest protection status).
- Project Dolphin (2020) – Government initiative to protect river dolphins and restore their habitat.

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4th March 2025 (14 Topics)

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First-Ever Estimate of Gangetic Dolphins in India

Key Findings of the Survey

**About Ganges river dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica)**

Still Have Questions?

GS Analyst: Daily Current Affairs

First-Ever Estimate of Gangetic Dolphins in India

Key Findings of the Survey

About Ganges river dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica)

Still Have Questions?

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**About Ganges river dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica)**