In a recent post on the microblogging site X, the Assam Chief Minister's office emphasized the critical role of Gangetic dolphins as "umbrella species" in aquatic habitats, drawing parallels with the significance of tigers in terrestrial ecosystems.
Highlighting a significant milestone in conservation efforts, the post stated that the Greater Kaziranga region has reported over 92 individuals of Gangetic dolphins, establishing it as a vital source population for the entire Brahmaputra river system.
The Gangetic River Dolphin holds profound cultural and ecological importance in Assam, being designated as both the national and state aquatic animal. Underlining its conservation status, the species is listed as a Schedule-1 species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and is classified as 'endangered' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).