Asiatic lions: Gujarat has emerged as a beacon of hope for wildlife conservation, particularly in safeguarding the endangered Asiatic lion. Once teetering on the brink of extinction, the lion population in the state has experienced a remarkable resurgence, thanks to concerted conservation efforts, innovative strategies, and community involvement.
The latest census, conducted in May 2025, reports a lion population of 891 individuals in Gujarat, marking a 32% increase from 674 in 2020 and a 70% rise since 2015 . This growth signifies a significant recovery for a species once confined to a single sanctuary.
Notably, over half of these lions—507 individuals—now inhabit areas beyond the traditional Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, indicating successful territorial expansion across 11 districts of Saurashtra . Lions have established new territories in regions such as Barda Sanctuary, Mitiyala, and coastal areas, with Mitiyala sanctuary alone witnessing a 100% increase in its lion population.
Conservation Strategies – Project Lion
Launched in 2018, Project Lion is a comprehensive initiative aimed at conserving the Asiatic lion through habitat management, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and community engagement.
- Habitat Expansion: Efforts to increase the lion’s range have led to their presence in over 30,000 square kilometers, up from 22,000 square kilometers in 2015 .
- Community Involvement: Over 1.8 million individuals and more than 11,000 institutions participated in awareness programs in 2024 alone, fostering a sense of shared responsibility.
- Infrastructure Development: The construction of 11,000 machans (platforms) has helped farmers protect their crops while ensuring safety and coexistence with lions .
Technological Interventions
To monitor lion movements and mitigate risks, GPS satellite telemetry has been employed. This technology allows real-time tracking of lions, enabling prompt responses to potential threats and reducing human-lion conflicts .
Healthcare and Veterinary Support
Collaborations with institutions like the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) have enhanced veterinary care for lions. Training programs for local veterinarians and the establishment of healthcare protocols have improved the management of diseases and injuries among lions.
Railway Safety Measures
To prevent lion fatalities on railway tracks, the Gujarat government has implemented safety measures, including the erection of chain-link fencing along critical railway lines and the deployment of rescue vehicles for swift wildlife emergency responses.
The Significance
The resurgence of the Asiatic lion in Gujarat is a testament to the effectiveness of integrated conservation strategies. Through a combination of habitat expansion, technological monitoring, community involvement, and infrastructure development, Gujarat has not only stabilized but also significantly increased its lion population. This success story offers valuable insights for wildlife conservation initiatives worldwide, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in preserving our natural heritage.
