Project Dolphin announced

  • IASbaba
  • September 12, 2020
  • 0
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Project Dolphin announced

Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Environment; Biodiversity 

In news

  • The Indian Prime Minister had announced the government’s plan to launch a Project Dolphin in his recent Independence Day Speech.
  • Aim: To save both river and marine dolphins.
  • Implemented by: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
  • Project Dolphin will be on the lines of Project Tiger.

Important value additions

Gangetic Dolphin

  • Scientific Name: Platanista gangetica
  • These are generally blind. 
  • They catch their prey by emitting an ultrasonic sound which reaches the prey.
  • These are also called Susu.
  • It is found mainly in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems and in the Ganga’s tributaries.
  • Threats: Construction of dams, Pollution, excessive silting and sand mining.
  • It has been recognized by the Indian Government as its National Aquatic Animal
  • It is the official animal of the Guwahati, Assam.
  • IUCN Status:  Endangered 

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