Gir National Park, the last bastion of the Asiatic lion, played host to an extraordinary moment in India’s conservation history on March 3, 2025. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) amidst the roaring wilderness of Gujarat’s most celebrated sanctuary. The meeting saw a series of landmark announcements aimed at strengthening India’s wildlife conservation efforts, from expanding the Cheetah reintroduction project to launching the first-ever national riverine dolphin estimation report.
Among the key voices in the discussion was Dr. Mohan Ram, the Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) of Gir National Park. Passionate and deeply connected to the landscape he protects, Dr. Ram shared insights on India’s evolving conservation strategies and the crucial role of local communities in sustaining wildlife populations.
THE ASIATIC LION’S EXPANDING KINGDOM
For Gir, the highlight of the meeting was the Prime Minister’s announcement of the 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation in 2025. With the lions now naturally dispersing into Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, conservation efforts will extend to prey augmentation and habitat enhancement.
Dr. Ram, who has been closely monitoring the lion’s movement, emphasized the importance of this expansion. “We are witnessing history unfold. The lions are reclaiming spaces beyond Gir, and our role is to ensure they do so safely, without conflict. The Barda corridor will be a crucial step in securing their future,” he shared with Indian Masterminds.
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A DIGITAL SHIELD FOR WILDLIFE PROTECTION
Technology took center stage during the discussions, with the Prime Minister stressing the use of artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and geospatial mapping to combat forest fires and human-animal conflicts. The government proposed collaborations between the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and BISAG-N, a premier institute specializing in space technology applications.
Dr. Ram, who has been actively integrating technology into Gir’s conservation model, welcomed the initiative. “Real-time monitoring using AI-powered camera traps and predictive fire-detection systems will revolutionize how we protect our forests. In Gir, we have already seen a 30% reduction in human-wildlife conflict due to early-warning systems.”
A NATIONAL PLAN FOR THE GREAT INDIAN BUSTARD AND GHARIALS
The meeting also brought much-needed attention to lesser-known species on the brink of extinction. The Prime Minister announced a National Great Indian Bustard Conservation Action Plan and a new project dedicated to gharial conservation.
“These species are at a critical juncture,” Dr. Ram noted. “We need to look beyond charismatic megafauna and work aggressively to secure habitats for birds like the Great Indian Bustard. It’s not just about saving a species, it’s about saving entire ecosystems.”
EXPANDING THE CHEETAH’S FOOTPRINT
One of the biggest takeaways from the meeting was the expansion of India’s ambitious Cheetah Reintroduction Project. After their historic return to Kuno National Park, cheetahs will now find new homes in Gandhisagar Sanctuary (Madhya Pradesh) and Banni Grasslands (Gujarat).
“This is not just about bringing back a lost species, it’s about restoring ecological balance. The cheetahs will help control herbivore populations, benefiting the overall health of these ecosystems,” he told Indian Masterminds.
EMPOWERING FOREST FRONTLINE WORKERS
Recognizing the relentless efforts of field staff, the Prime Minister flagged off motorcycles for better mobility in forest patrols. Dr. Ram, who has worked closely with frontline rangers, acknowledged the significance of this gesture.
“These men and women are the true protectors of the wild,” he said. “Better mobility means faster response times—whether it’s handling a conflict situation or monitoring poaching threats.”
TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE MEETS MODERN CONSERVATION
Perhaps one of the most intriguing discussions of the day revolved around traditional conservation knowledge. The Prime Minister called for documenting India’s centuries-old wisdom on wildlife management using AI and digital archives.
“In Gir, we have tribal communities who have lived alongside lions for generations,” Dr. Ram pointed out. “Their knowledge of animal behavior is unmatched. Integrating their insights with modern conservation techniques will be a game-changer.”
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THE ROAD AHEAD
As the sun set over Gir’s acacia-covered hills, it is clear that India is stepping into a new era of wildlife conservation—one where science, community participation, and technology work hand in hand. For officers like Dr. Mohan Ram, this isn’t just a profession; it’s a calling.
