In which Indian state was the first-ever Ganges River Dolphin successfully satellite-tagged in December, 2024?

The correct answer is Assam . Key Points In a historic milestone for aquatic conservation, the first-ever satellite tagging of a Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) was successfully carried out in Assam in December 2024 . The tagging operation was a joint initiative conducted by the Assam Forest Department and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) , supported by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) . The exercise took place in the Kulsi River , which is a major southern tributary of the Brahmaputra River in Assam , known for its resident dolphin population. Two individuals, specifically a male and a female dolphin, were fitted with satellite transmitters to study their migratory routes , habitat utilization , and survival challenges in real-time. This technological intervention aims to provide critical data for the Project Dolphin initiative, helping authorities understand how these mammals navigate through narrow river channels and respond to environmental changes. Additional Information National Aquatic Animal: The Ganges River Dolphin was officially declared the National Aquatic Animal of India on October 5, 2009 , to highlight its ecological importance and the need for its protection. Conservation Status: The species is categorized as Endangered on the IUCN Red List and is protected under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 , granting it the highest level of legal protection. Unique Biological Features: Being practically blind , these dolphins rely on echolocation (ultrasonic sound waves) to navigate and find prey in the murky waters of the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna river systems. Regional Distribution: Apart from Assam , these dolphins are found in the states of Bihar , Uttar Pradesh , and West Bengal , as well as in the neighboring countries of Nepal and Bangladesh . Project Dolphin: Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15, 2020 , this project is modeled after Project Tiger to ensure a dedicated conservation roadmap for both riverine and marine dolphins . Important Points Environmental Indicator: The Ganges River Dolphin is considered an indicator species ; its presence signifies a healthy freshwater ecosystem, as it is a top predator in the river food chain. Key Threats: The population faces severe risks from anthropogenic activities , including habitat loss due to dams and barrages , industrial pollution , and accidental death caused by fishing nets (bycatch). The Kulsi River: Located in the Kamrup district of Assam , the Kulsi River is one of the few habitats where dolphins are frequently sighted throughout the year, making it a focal point for scientific research and telemetry studies . Global Context: The Ganges River Dolphin is one of only four freshwater dolphin species in the world, others being the Amazon River Dolphin , the Indus River Dolphin , and the now-extinct Baiji (Yangtze River Dolphin).