Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted the successful rescue of a Gangetic dolphin in Uttar Pradesh and lauded the role of India’s first dolphin rescue ambulance in protecting the country’s aquatic biodiversity.
Speaking during the 134th episode of Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi referred to a widely discussed rescue operation in which conservation teams spent nearly 13 hours saving a trapped Gangetic dolphin.
“To those watching ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on TV, I would like to say – you must watch this video. Some people are patiently and carefully trying to save a Gangetic dolphin. You will be surprised to know that this entire effort took about 13 hours, and ultimately the dolphin was saved,” the Prime Minister said.
First Dolphin Rescue Ambulance Played Key Role
The Prime Minister said the rescue operation was carried out with the help of India’s first Ganga dolphin rescue ambulance, developed under the Namami Gange Programme.
PM Modi said that the incident occurred in Uttar Pradesh when a Gangetic dolphin became trapped in a canal.
“At that time, this ambulance, built under the ‘Namami Gange Abhiyan’, reached there as a ray of hope. It was then carefully pulled out. It was examined, it was treated and then it was safely released into the Rapti River. In a way, a life returned home,” he said.
Mobile Hospital for Aquatic Wildlife
Describing the specialised vehicle, PM Modi said the dolphin rescue ambulance functions like a mobile hospital designed specifically for aquatic wildlife emergencies.
“This dolphin rescue ambulance is very special. It has been designed like a mobile hospital,” he said.
The ambulance is equipped with oxygen support systems, specialised stretchers and rescue equipment to safely transport and treat dolphins that are injured, stranded or separated from their natural habitats.
“It has arrangements for keeping the dolphin safe. It has oxygen facilities, special stretchers, and rescue equipment,” PM Modi noted.
He added that the facility enables authorities to respond quickly whenever dolphins become trapped in canals, sustain injuries or require emergency assistance.
Conserving the Ganga’s Biodiversity
The Prime Minister stressed that protecting the Gangetic dolphin is essential for preserving the ecological health of the Ganga river system.
“When we save the Gangetic dolphin, we don’t just save a species; we save the biodiversity of the Ganga. We save the river’s entire life system and preserve a priceless natural heritage for our future generations,” PM Modi said.
The Gangetic dolphin, India’s national aquatic animal, is considered a key indicator of the health of freshwater ecosystems.
Call to Reconnect with Water Bodies
Reflecting on India’s deep cultural connection with rivers and water bodies, PM Modi said many people carry childhood memories associated with ponds, rivers and wells.
“Many of you must have memories connected with a river, pond, or well water. Some might remember swimming in a pond, some might remember playing with friends on the pond’s banks, some might remember the fragrance of the mud. Such childhood memories linger in the heart for a lifetime,” he said.
