Sasan, Gujarat – On World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a groundbreaking report on India’s riverine dolphins, revealing a population of 6,327 individuals. This first-ever national estimation was shared during the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), held in Sasan, Gujarat's Junagadh district.
The Prime Minister emphasized the significance of this pioneering survey, which spanned 28 rivers across eight states. The study, which involved 3,150 man-days and covered over 8,500 kilometers, highlights India’s commitment to conserving its aquatic wildlife. According to the official release, Uttar Pradesh emerged as the state with the highest dolphin count, followed by Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam.
PM Modi stressed the importance of increasing awareness about riverine dolphin conservation, calling for the involvement of local communities and villagers. He also suggested organizing exposure visits for schoolchildren to dolphin habitats, encouraging a sense of responsibility for preserving these unique species.
The NBWL, a statutory advisory body on wildlife conservation, is chaired by the Prime Minister and includes 47 members from various sectors, including the Chief of Army Staff, wildlife experts, and state officials.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi visited Gir National Park for a safari and highlighted the positive growth of the Asiatic lion population. Reflecting on his previous tenure as Gujarat's Chief Minister, he credited collective efforts for the lion’s conservation success. Modi also acknowledged the vital role of local tribal communities and women in preserving the lion's habitat, underscoring their contribution to wildlife protection.
The national riverine dolphin estimation marks a milestone in India’s wildlife conservation efforts and reflects ongoing dedication to safeguarding the country’s natural heritage.
The Prime Minister emphasized the significance of this pioneering survey, which spanned 28 rivers across eight states. The study, which involved 3,150 man-days and covered over 8,500 kilometers, highlights India’s commitment to conserving its aquatic wildlife. According to the official release, Uttar Pradesh emerged as the state with the highest dolphin count, followed by Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam.
PM Modi stressed the importance of increasing awareness about riverine dolphin conservation, calling for the involvement of local communities and villagers. He also suggested organizing exposure visits for schoolchildren to dolphin habitats, encouraging a sense of responsibility for preserving these unique species.
The NBWL, a statutory advisory body on wildlife conservation, is chaired by the Prime Minister and includes 47 members from various sectors, including the Chief of Army Staff, wildlife experts, and state officials.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi visited Gir National Park for a safari and highlighted the positive growth of the Asiatic lion population. Reflecting on his previous tenure as Gujarat's Chief Minister, he credited collective efforts for the lion’s conservation success. Modi also acknowledged the vital role of local tribal communities and women in preserving the lion's habitat, underscoring their contribution to wildlife protection.
The national riverine dolphin estimation marks a milestone in India’s wildlife conservation efforts and reflects ongoing dedication to safeguarding the country’s natural heritage.