New Delhi: The population of Asiatic lions in India has risen significantly from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025, according to information provided by the Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Mr Kirti Vardhan Singh, in response to a written question in the Rajya Sabha today.
The increase is attributed to both natural population growth and successful management initiatives in the Gir and Greater Gir landscape in Gujarat. Lions have now expanded into new areas, including notified forest regions, river corridors, and revenue wastelands.
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Key Measures Taken to Protect Asiatic Lions
The State of Gujarat has implemented a range of conservation and management strategies to protect the lion population and mitigate human-wildlife conflict. Some of the major initiatives include:
Scientific Research & Monitoring:
A comprehensive satellite telemetry study has been conducted to track lion ecology, spatial distribution, corridor usage, movement of satellite populations, seasonal patterns, land-use preferences, and key management zones.
A Hi-Tech Monitoring Unit was established at Sasan-Gir in 2019 for real-time tracking of lions using radio telemetry.
Community Engagement:
Vanya Prani Mitras and wildlife trackers are engaged to sensitize local communities about lion movement.
Eco-development activities, nature education camps, and outreach programs are conducted to encourage local participation in conservation.
Habitat & Prey Base Management:
Improvement and restoration of grasslands, augmentation of prey base, and habitat improvements across the Gir landscape.
Barda Wildlife Sanctuary has been developed as a second home for the lion population.
Habitat improvement initiatives are underway in newly inhabited areas.
Corridor & Movement Management:
- Delineation and protection of key corridors for safe lion movement.
- Management of satellite populations in the Greater Gir landscape.
- Provision of Machans (elevated platforms) for farmers to guard crops at night.
Augmentation of water resources to reduce lion movement toward human-dominated areas.
Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation:
- SOPs for protection of lions around railway tracks have been developed.
- Speed restrictions imposed in hotspot areas, with patrolling and monitoring to ensure safety.
Population Expansion and New Habitats
Thanks to these efforts, Asiatic lions have naturally expanded into new habitats while maintaining connectivity between sub-populations. Corridor management initiatives have facilitated safe movement, allowing the species to grow and disperse beyond traditional habitats.
The Gujarat government continues to prioritize disease control, veterinary facilities, and community participation to ensure the long-term survival of this iconic species.
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