Dolphin Day observed in Bihar to create awareness about Gangetic Dolphins

Dolphin Day was observed on 5 October 2012 in Bihar. The state government declared to observe 5 October as the Dolphin Day in the state every year. This came as a part of world wild life week that was being observed by the state from second to eight October.

This was an act to increase awareness about conservation of one of the rarest and critically endangered Gangetic Species. The Gangetic Dolphin that is scientifically known as Platanista Gangetica is also the National Aquatic animal of India. To conserve the aquatic species the Deputy Chief Minister of the State Sushil Kumar Modi declared that a Dolphin watch center would be developed at places where these Dolphins are still visible. To raise the awareness this center will also be used as a site for tourists’ attraction. During the day long observation of Dolphin Day, films and documentaries related to dolphins were screened in the state.

Dolphins of Ganga are into regular attack by the Poachers for its oil that acts as an ointment and aphrodisiac as well as for the flesh. The species has been declared to be an endangered species by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). Gangetic Dolphins is covered by the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act under its 1st Schedule. The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary located in the Bhagalpur district of Bihar is the one and only sanctuary for preservation of this endangered species.