India's premier facility dedicated to the study and conservation of Gangetic freshwater dolphins, known as the National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC), was established at ______.

The correct option is Patna.

The National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC) is India's and Asia's first facility dedicated to the study and conservation of the Gangetic freshwater dolphin. It was established on the campus of Patna University along the banks of the Ganges River in Patna, Bihar.

Key facts regarding the NDRC and the Gangetic Dolphin:
- The NDRC serves as a central hub for researchers and scientists to study dolphin ecology, behavior, habitat requirements, and threat factors.
- The Gangetic river dolphin (Platanista gangetica) is officially recognized as the National Aquatic Animal of India.
- It is classified as an Endangered species on the IUCN Red List and receives maximum legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.