What is the news?

 

• • India’s first National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC) in Patna, Bihar, gave the endangered Ganges river dolphin hope. This historic endeavour advances study and conservation of this aquatic species.

 

Ganges River Dolphin Crisis:

 

Ganga, Brahmaputra, Meghna, Karnaphuli, and Sangu rivers are home to the Ganges river dolphin, also known as the Ganges Susu. Unfortunately, these gorgeous species face several hazards, including:

 

• • Pollution, dams, and excessive fishing negatively harm their habitat and food sources.

• • Accidental Bycatch: Many dolphins die from fishing net entanglement.

• • Low public understanding about Ganges river dolphin conservation inhibits protection efforts.

 

What is the IUCN status of Ganges river dolphin?

 

• • The Ganges river dolphin has been listed as an Endangered species on the IUCN Red List since 1996.

 

The NDRC: Conservation Catalyst

 

The Patna NDRC has great potential for the Ganges dolphin:

 

• • Enhanced Research: The centre will conduct Ganges river dolphin behaviour, population dynamics, and threat research. Development of effective conservation initiatives requires this knowledge.

• • Advocacy: The NDRC can raise awareness of the Ganges River dolphin’s predicament and promote conservation initiatives.

• • Collaboration and Training: The centre can help researchers, government agencies, and NGOs share knowledge and train conservationists, especially fishers.

 

Challenges and Way Forward:

 

NDRC difficulties persist despite optimism:

 

• • Securing Long-Term support: The centre’s operations and research require ongoing support.
  • Community Engagement: Conservation demands community involvement. The NDRC must find ways to involve fishermen and riverfront communities in conservation.
  • To preserve the Ganges river dolphin’s habitat, conservation initiatives must address water pollution and unsustainable fishing.

 

A Call to Action:

 

• • The NDRC’s inauguration is good, but it’s just the start. Various levels of cooperation are needed to save the Ganges river dolphin. This includes stronger environmental rules, sustainable fishing, and riverfront conservation. We can preserve these fascinating species in the Ganges for future years by working together.

 

Ganges Dolphin Facts:

South Asian rivers are home to the Ganges River Dolphin (Susu), a rare and endangered freshwater dolphin. Its traits, habitat, and threats are mentioned below:

Characteristics:

 

Appearance:

• • Small, rectangular dorsal fin, stocky body, rounded belly.
  • Sharp teeth on long snout even when mouth is closed.
  • Grey or brown, with chocolateish calves at birth.
  • Blind, using echolocation to travel and hunt.

Size:

• • Males grow to 2.12 metres (7 feet) and females to 2.67 metres (8.8 feet).
  • Weight might be 120-150 kg (265-330 lbs).

Behaviour:

• • They eat several fish types and are diurnal.
  • Whistle, click, and squeak.

Habitat:

• • The Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna river system flows through India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
  • Likes moderate-to-slow-flowing waters.
  • Food and survival depend on healthy river ecosystems.

Threats:

• • Degradation: Pollution, dams, and excessive fishing harm their habitat and food sources.
  • Accidental Bycatch: Fishing nets kill many.
  • Awareness: Lack of public awareness regarding Ganges River Dolphin conservation inhibits protection efforts.

Conservation Status:

• • A “Endangered” species on the IUCN Red List.
  • The above threats have dramatically reduced populations.

Conservation:

• • Recent noteworthy developments include Patna, India’s National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC).
  • NDRC studies, raises awareness, and develops Ganges River Dolphin conservation initiatives.
  • The Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 protects, although habitat deterioration and stronger enforcement are needed.
  • Ganges River Dolphins are crucial to the freshwater ecology and national treasures for India and neighbouring countries. Conservation efforts must continue to save this beautiful aquatic creature.

 

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QuizTime:

 

Mains Questions:

 

Model Answer:

 

Significance of NDRC:

• • Enhanced Research: The NDRC will facilitate vital research on behavior, population dynamics, and threats faced by the Ganges river dolphin. This knowledge will be crucial for developing effective conservation strategies.
  • Conservation Advocacy: The centre can raise public awareness about the plight of the Ganges river dolphin and garner support for conservation efforts.
  • Collaboration and Training: The NDRC can foster collaboration between researchers, government agencies, and NGOs. This can promote knowledge sharing and capacity building for conservation personnel, including fishermen.

 

Challenges in Conservation:

• • Securing Long-Term Funding: Sustained funding is essential for the NDRC’s continued operations and research projects.
  • Community Engagement: Active participation of local communities, especially fishermen, is crucial. The NDRC must develop strategies for their engagement in conservation efforts.
  • Addressing Habitat Threats: Conservation efforts must address broader issues like water pollution, unsustainable fishing practices, and river infrastructure development to ensure the long-term viability of the Ganges river dolphin’s habitat.

 

 

Model Answer:

 

Limitations of Legal Frameworks:

• • Enforcement Challenges: Effective implementation and enforcement of legal provisions can be a challenge due to resource constraints and manpower limitations.
  • Lack of Awareness: Limited public awareness about protected species and their importance can hinder the effectiveness of legal safeguards.
  • Addressing Root Causes: Legal frameworks may not directly address underlying issues like habitat degradation due to pollution or unsustainable practices.

 

Alternative Approaches:

• • Community Engagement: Involving local communities in conservation efforts fosters a sense of ownership and promotes responsible behavior.
  • Habitat Restoration Projects: Initiatives focused on restoring and protecting river ecosystems are crucial for the long-term survival of aquatic species.
  • Promoting Sustainable Practices: Encouraging sustainable fishing practices and promoting alternatives to minimize accidental bycatch of dolphins.
  • By combining legal safeguards with community engagement, habitat restoration, and promoting sustainable practices, a more holistic approach can be taken towards wildlife conservation, including the Ganges river dolphin.

 

Remember: These are just sample answers. It’s important to further research and refine your responses based on your own understanding and perspective.