Inaugurated 10 mnths ago, NDRC likely to be operational by June: Minister

Patna: National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC) in Patna — the country's first dedicated centre to conserve the endangered Gangetic dolphin — which remains non-operational even 10 months after its inauguration, is expected to be functional by June, said environment, forest and climate change minister Prem Kumar who visited the place on Wednesday.
"The state govt will soon appoint employees at the centre. A proposal in this regard has been submitted. After all the necessary arrangements, the centre is expected to be functional by June," he said.
He added the govt was also forming a committee to facilitate fishermen and other communities dependent on aquatic animals for their livelihood. "Once operational, the NDRC will provide training to fishermen on conserving and protecting dolphins during fishing, establishing itself as a centre of excellence. The initiative is being taken for the conservation of aquatic animals not only found in river Ganga but also in other rivers of the state," the minister said.
Inaugurated by CM Nitish Kumar in March 2024, the centre was constructed at a cost of approximately Rs 32 lakh on a 4,400sqm plot on the premises of Patna University near law college ghat. It aims to conduct in-depth studies on freshwater dolphins. Despite being the only such centre in Asia, the NDRC has failed to initiate its research activities, leaving students and faculty members of Patna University disappointed.
The NDRC's interim director, Gopal Sharma, said that the centre has faced challenges since inception.
"A proposal for the appointment of staff as well as purchase of the equipment necessary for research works has been submitted by the NDRC's expert committee. Soon all the proposals will be approved by the govt, and a budget will be allocated for the functioning of the centre. The centre is expected to start functioning in the next financial year," Sharma said.