Reinforcing the Government of India’s commitment to protecting rivers as living ecosystems, Union Minister for Jal Shakti Shri C.R. Paatil inaugurated a series of transformative aquatic biodiversity conservation initiatives under the Namami Gange Mission at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun. The initiatives mark a decisive shift towards science-driven, institutional, and community-led conservation of freshwater ecosystems across the country.
New Vision for River Conservation: Biodiversity as the True Indicator of River Health
Addressing a special programme organised at WII, Shri Paatil emphasised that rivers must not be seen merely as water channels but as life-supporting ecosystems. He stated that the thriving of aquatic biodiversity is the most authentic indicator of river health and sustainability.
The event was attended by:
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Dr. Vinay Kumar Ruhella, Vice Chairman, SDMA Uttarakhand
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Dr. Gobind Sagar Bhardwaj, Director, Wildlife Institute of India
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Shri Rajeev Kumar Mital, Director General, National Mission for Clean Ganga
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Senior officials, researchers, conservation experts and students
Aqua Life Conservation Monitoring Centre Dedicated to the Nation
A major highlight of the event was the inauguration of the Aqua Life Conservation Monitoring Centre for Ganga and Other Rivers, developed under the partnership between Namami Gange and WII.
The Centre provides a dedicated institutional framework for long-term aquatic biodiversity monitoring and conservation. It is equipped with advanced facilities including:
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Ecotoxicology laboratory
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Aquatic ecology laboratory
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Spatial ecology laboratory
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Microplastics identification laboratory
Through modern technology, scientific research and data-driven decision-making, the Centre will support policy formulation, hotspot identification, species monitoring, and ecosystem-based conservation strategies across India’s river systems.
Dolphin Rescue Ambulance Launched to Protect India’s National Aquatic Animal
Shri Paatil also inaugurated the Dolphin Rescue Ambulance of TSAFI, strengthening rapid-response efforts for conservation of the Ganga Dolphin, India’s national aquatic animal.
The ambulance will provide:
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Emergency rescue services
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Scientifically equipped life-support for distressed dolphins
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Field-based conservation intervention capabilities
The Minister noted that the Ganga dolphin is a highly sensitive indicator of river health, and this initiative reflects the Government’s seriousness towards protecting aquatic life. He added that the increasing dolphin population reflects the positive ecological impact of Namami Gange.
Freshwater Ecology Master’s Programme Nurtures Future Conservation Leaders
During his interaction with researchers and students, the Minister appreciated the two-year Master’s Programme in Freshwater Ecology and Conservation launched by WII under Namami Gange.
The programme trains students in:
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River and wetland ecology
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Biodiversity conservation
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Field research techniques
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Environmental policy and governance
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Sustainable water management
He commended students for dedicating themselves to this specialised field and called them the future custodians of India’s river ecosystems.
Plantation Drive Under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ Strengthens Ecological Commitment
Shri Paatil also undertook a plantation drive at WII, dedicating it to the national campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’. He highlighted that afforestation is an integral part of Namami Gange, contributing to:
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Riverbank stability
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Biodiversity protection
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Climate resilience
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Ecosystem restoration
Indian Skimmer Conservation Project Launched
The programme witnessed the launch of the Indian Skimmer Conservation Project by the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS). The initiative aims to protect rare riverine bird species along the Ganga basin.
The Minister noted that river conservation today extends beyond water quality to include the entire ecosystem, including birds, turtles, fish, and riparian habitats. Such species are vital indicators of ecological health and biodiversity richness.
Turtle Conservation Project Shows National Milestones
The success of the TSAFI Turtle Conservation Project was highlighted as a model for scientific species recovery.
Key achievements include:
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Reintroduction of 15 Narrow-headed Softshell Turtles (Chitra indica) into the Yamuna
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Radio-tagging and monitoring of 10 turtles
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Reintroduction of 20 Red-crowned Roofed Turtles (Batagur kachuga) into the Upper Ganga
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First monitored reintroduction of this species in its historical range after three decades
The Minister described turtles as “silent sentinels of river health”, noting that their revival reflects improving ecological balance.
Rising Dolphin Population Reflects Success of Jan Bhagidari
Shri Paatil interacted with Ganga Praharis and praised their grassroots role in conservation. He noted that the Ganga dolphin population has crossed 6,000, a strong indicator that rivers are becoming cleaner and more life-supporting.
He emphasised that this success is driven not only by government programmes but also by Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation) and community stewardship.
Publications Released to Strengthen Science–Policy Link
Two important publications were released during the event:
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A report on population status and conservation action plan for critically endangered Gharial in the Ganga basin
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“Millets for Life”, linking biodiversity conservation with food and nutrition security
These publications strengthen the integration of science, sustainability and policy planning.
Conclusion
The initiatives inaugurated at the Wildlife Institute of India represent a decisive evolution of the Namami Gange Mission — from river cleaning to holistic ecosystem rejuvenation. Through advanced scientific infrastructure, institutional collaboration, youth capacity building and strong community participation, India is now building a comprehensive framework for long-term aquatic biodiversity conservation. The message is clear: safeguarding rivers means safeguarding life itself, for current and future generations.
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Source: PIB
