India’s Growing Pride: Asiatic Lion Population Soars as Nation Deepens Commitment to Nature

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Devbhumi Dwarka, Gujarat 

India’s unwavering commitment to the environment and wildlife conservation has once again borne remarkable results, with the Asiatic lion population in Gujarat reaching a record high of 891, up from 674 just five years ago.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, speaking at a World Lion Day celebration in Timbdi village under the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, hailed the achievement as a testament to the nation’s “intimate relationship with nature and wildlife.”

 

“India has pledged to the world that we will work relentlessly to protect and rehabilitate our wildlife,” Yadav said, emphasizing how the country’s conservation model reflects harmony between people and nature.

He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, announced last year, to expand lion habitats beyond Gir and develop Barda Sanctuary as a new home for the species, had already begun to show results.

The Minister highlighted how climate change—with its associated threats of extreme rainfall and cyclones—demands proactive global and local action. India has spearheaded several international initiatives such as the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), the International Solar Alliance, and the International Big Cat Alliance.

“Of the seven big cat species found worldwide, five live in India, and the Asiatic lion is found only here — giving Gujarat 100% credit for its protection,” he remarked.

Yadav praised the Maldhari pastoralist community for their centuries-old coexistence with lions, calling their lifestyle an inspiring example for the world. “Anyone who wants to understand true wildlife conservation should visit Gir and Barda, observe the State government’s efforts, and meet the local communities who have made it possible,” he added.

The Minister also celebrated India’s broader conservation success stories — 58 tiger reserves now host 70% of the world’s tigers, snow leopard populations are at 714, and the ambitious reintroduction of African cheetahs has been achieved.

Ongoing initiatives such as Project Lion, Project Tiger, Project Elephant, Project Dolphin, and Project Great Indian Bustard underscore India’s holistic approach to preserving biodiversity.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, present at the event, launched 11 eco-development projects worth ₹189 crore, including a safari park, an interpretation centre, and a breeding facility at Barda.

Patel expressed joy that, after a 143-year gap, lions have naturally returned to the Barda hills. He credited PM Modi’s vision and the forest department’s dedication for the global recognition of Gir’s conservation success.

“Project Lion,” Patel said, “ensures our Vanraj — the Lion King — will continue to reign with dignity. From habitat expansion and wildlife health to conflict mitigation and community partnership, every aspect has been addressed to keep India’s conservation legacy alive.”

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