Which of the following is/are true?

1) Irrawady Dolphins are found in Odisha.

2) National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has initiated dolphin conservation programme.

a. Only 1

b. Only 2

c. Both 1 and 2

d. Neither 1 nor 2

ANSWER: Both 1 and 2

Explanation:

Dolphins are animals of aquatic ecosystems. They are found in the sea, brackish water and fresh water. A total of 15 species of marine and harbour dolphins have been reported from Indian waters and coasts.

Besides, the Irrawady Dolphins are found in brackish waters of Odisha. Irrawady is a major river in Myanmar.

Amongst the fresh water dolphins, the Gangetic Dolphin is found in the Ganges River and its tributaries.

Apart from this, Indus River Dolphins have also been reported in Indus River in Punjab.

All fresh water, brackish water and marine Dolphins (Cetaceans) are listed in Schedule-I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, thereby according them the highest degree of protection against hunting.

National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has initiated dolphin conservation programme in 2016 to ensure long term survival of dolphin and other river fauna.