Where is India's National Dolphin Research Centre Located?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

Agniveer Navy MR: 22 May 2025 Shift 2 Memory-Based Paper

Answer 1

The correct answer is Patna.

Key Points

National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC): India's first dedicated facility for the conservation and study of the Gangetic river dolphin, inaugurated on March 4, 2024, in Patna, Bihar.
Strategic Location: Situated near the Ganga River on the Patna University campus, the NDRC provides researchers with proximity to the dolphins' natural habitat.
The Dolphin Day is celebrated by the State Government of Bihar on 5th October every year.
Research Focus: The center aims to study various aspects of Gangetic dolphins, including behavior, survival skills, and causes of mortality, contributing to their conservation.
Significance: Bihar is home to approximately half of India's estimated 3,000 Gangetic dolphins, highlighting the importance of the NDRC in regional conservation efforts.

Additional Information

Gangetic River Dolphin: Declared as India's national aquatic animal, these dolphins are found in the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems across India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
Conservation Challenges: The Gangetic dolphin faces threats such as habitat degradation, pollution, and accidental capture in fishing nets, making dedicated research and conservation efforts essential.
Project Dolphin: Launched in 2021, this initiative aims to protect both riverine and oceanic dolphins in India, with the NDRC playing a pivotal role in its implementation.
International Recognition: The establishment of the NDRC positions India as a key player in global efforts to study and conserve freshwater dolphin species.
Educational Outreach: Beyond research, the NDRC is committed to educating local communities, especially fishermen, on sustainable practices to protect dolphin populations.