Project Dolphin 2.0: India begins second nationwide dolphin census to protect river giants

India has begun its second nationwide dolphin population survey today. The census has started from Bijnor on 17th January 2026 along key river stretches carefully. The researchers aim to update counts, track habitat quality and threats. This is part of the government’s ongoing Project Dolphin initiative. Efforts combine science, conservation and policy for river protection.

Collaboration involves state forest departments, research institutes, and NGOs. The program continues momentum from the first census completed recently. Scientists hope to map dolphin populations across India’s major rivers.

Project Dolphin: India’s Mission to Save River Giants

Project Dolphin is India’s nationwide effort to save dolphins. It was launched in 2020 under the Environment Ministry. Focus is on riverine and estuarine dolphins, India’s aquatic giants. The initiative combines monitoring, habitat restoration, and species protection. It aims to prevent dolphin population decline across river systems.

Collaborative Force behind Project Dolphin

The Wildlife Institute of India leads the survey nationwide. State forest departments provide local support along major river stretches. NGOs such as WWF India, WTI and Aaranyak contribute expertise. Teams of researchers are trained to count and monitor dolphins carefully. Collaboration ensures both scientific accuracy and local conservation knowledge integration.

Innovative Techniques Track Dolphins 

Surveyors monitor rivers using boats and observation points daily. They record sightings, behavior and approximate numbers of dolphins. Water quality, habitat health and threats like fishing nets are noted. Data is fed into national databases to track population trends. Modern techniques combine traditional observation and digital mapping tools.