KOCHI: India's southern seas especially south of Kochi in the Arabian Sea are safe havens for endangered dolphins and whales. Their increase is due to adequate food and security. A census of marine mammals conducted by the Fisheries Survey of India (FSI) as part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana has found an increase in their presence. The survey conducted last November to March found 10,416 dolphins in 16 classes and 27 whales in four classes.

The FSI has expedited the survey after the US imposed a temporary ban on shrimp exports from India. The U.S. ban was because they had doubts about whether the shrimp catch was done following the measures to protect marine mammals. The US lifted the export ban after the survey report was handed over showing an increase in the number of mammals. The survey started from Kochi on 10th September 2020. 7.11 crore was spent.

4488 hours of survey

The FSI team split into six and completed the survey in 4488 hours. The list was prepared by taking pictures of whales and dolphins reaching the ocean surface using high-resolution cameras. Lakshadweep sea is also a favorite place for dolphins.

"The number of marine mammals reaching Indian shores is increasing every year.

- Dr. Sijo P. Varghese

Zonal Director, FSI