Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s coastline has achieved a significant conservation milestone, with a total of 765 dolphins and other cetaceans documented during the 2025-26 population estimation survey.
The survey highlights the strong presence of multiple species across the State’s marine and coastal ecosystems. The Chilika Wildlife Division has emerged as a global conservation success story, recording 159 Irrawaddy dolphins.
The sustained growth of this globally significant population highlights the impact of long-term habitat protection, scientific wetland management, and active community participation in and around Chilika Lagoon.
Meanwhile, the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary under the Rajnagar Wildlife Division has strengthened its position as a major marine conservation stronghold. The sanctuary reported 474 Humpback dolphins (Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean), marking a significant milestone in coastal biodiversity conservation, according to PCCF (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden.
Officials said the findings reflect sustained habitat protection measures, active community participation, scientific monitoring, and coordinated conservation efforts undertaken by various wildlife divisions across the State.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden Prem Kumar Jha described the development as more than a numerical achievement.
“This is not just a number. It reflects healthier marine and coastal ecosystems, stronger conservation systems, and growing coexistence between people and wildlife along Odisha’s shores,” Jha said in a post on X.
The dolphin population estimation survey was conducted as part of ongoing efforts to assess marine biodiversity and strengthen conservation planning. Authorities noted that consistent monitoring, regulation of fishing activities in sensitive zones, and awareness programmes among coastal communities have contributed to improving conditions for marine species.
Odisha’s coastline, stretching over 480 km, remains one of the most ecologically significant regions on the country’s eastern seaboard, supporting diverse marine life and critical habitats.
Wildlife officials indicated that continued vigilance, scientific tracking, and community-based conservation will remain central to sustaining and enhancing marine biodiversity in the coming years.
