What is the estimated total population of river dolphins in India as per the first-ever comprehensive survey?

The Correct Answer is 6,327.

In News

• India’s first-ever comprehensive river dolphin survey estimated presence of 6,327 river dolphins across the country.

Key Points

• The first-ever comprehensive river dolphin survey in India estimated a total of 6,327 river dolphins across the country, with 635 dolphins recorded in Assam.
• The river dolphin in Assam is called Khihu, and the survey was conducted under Project Dolphin.
• A male Gangetic Dolphin was satellite tagged in Kulsi River near Guwahati, marking a first in India and the world.
• Assam’s Brahmaputra River remains a stable and barrier-free habitat for river dolphins, while other rivers like the Barak River and Subansiri River show concerning signs of decline or extinction.
• The survey indicated that Assam’s river systems are critical for dolphin conservation, emphasizing the importance of local community involvement and the protection of critical river habitats.