However, this has been reported by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Population estimates reported by IUCN in 2008 show that lower range of the total metapopulation abundance for Gangetic Dolphin is 1200-1800.

Nevertheless, the true numbers would be several times as high, because areas with potentially large numbers of animals have not been accounted in the above estimation. The main reasons for decline in population of the species are poaching, habitat degradation, heavy siltation, construction of barrages causing physical barrier for this migratory species, toxic contaminants and entrapment in fishing gear.

As per the information available in the Ministry, the State Government of Bihar has reported filing one case under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 against the poachers of Gangetic Dolphin during 2009-2010 in Patna by the State Forest Department. Under the existing Centrally Sponsored Scheme of 'Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats' and 'Project Tiger', financial assistance is provided to State/UTs Governments for conservation and protection of wildlife including Gangetic Dolphins. Presently, there is no special project for Gangetic Dolphin. However under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of 'Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats', Gangetic Dolphin has been identified as one of the species for recovery.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Environment and Forests (independent charge) Shri Jairam Ramesh in a written reply to a question by Smt. Maneka Gandhi in Lok Sabha today.