(file photo)Prime Minister Narendra Modi | Photo Credit: -

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hailed the successful rescue of a Gangetic dolphin in Uttar Pradesh as a testament to the impact of the Centre’s river conservation programme, Namami Gange, highlighting the role of India’s first dedicated dolphin rescue ambulance in saving the endangered aquatic mammal.

Speaking during the 134th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Modi referred to a widely shared video of a 13-hour rescue operation in which a dolphin trapped in a canal was safely retrieved, treated and released into the Rapti River.

“Ray of hope”

Describing the rescue vehicle as a “ray of hope”, the Prime Minister said the ambulance, developed under the Namami Gange initiative, played a crucial role in the operation.

“The dolphin was carefully rescued, examined and treated before being safely released into the river. In a way, a life returned home,” he said.

Modi noted that the specialised ambulance functions as a mobile veterinary unit equipped with oxygen support, customised stretchers and rescue equipment designed specifically for dolphins. It enables rapid intervention when dolphins are injured, stranded or cut off from their natural habitat.

“Saving the Gangetic dolphin is not just about protecting a species. It is about preserving the biodiversity of the Ganga, safeguarding the river’s ecosystem and conserving a priceless natural heritage for future generations,” he said.

The Prime Minister also spotlighted several citizen-led initiatives from across the country that are making a difference in environmental conservation and community welfare.

From Kerala, he cited the example of Saji Valasseril of Aluva, who runs a free swimming club in a river, teaching life-saving skills to people of all ages. According to Modi, more than 15,000 people, including specially-abled children, have learnt swimming through the initiative.

“This teaches us that serving society does not require large resources; what matters is the intention to contribute,” he said.

Modi also praised Akash Gupta and his team in Uttar Pradesh’s Basti district for leading efforts to revive the Manorama River. Motivated by memories of a cleaner river, the group undertook regular clean-up drives, removing water hyacinth, plastic waste and other debris.

Armed with little more than nets, baskets and spades, the volunteers often removed up to 50-60 kg of waste in a single day, helping raise awareness about environmental cleanliness in the region, he said.

The Prime Minister further highlighted the work of Balkrishna Aiya, a retired teacher from Goa, who helped address water scarcity in the Maddi-Tolap area by facilitating the laying of pipelines and improving water access for local households.

Published on May 31, 2026