Asiatic lion numbers in Gujarat increase 32% in 5 yrs, touch 891

The population of Asiatic lions in Gujarat has reached 891, witnessing an increase of 217 since 2020, according to figures released on World Lion Day.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced the figures during an event to observe World Lion Day at Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat’s Porbandar district, which was also attended by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.

In 1990, the Asiatic lion population was 284. The figure rose to 674 in 2020.

Union Minister Yadav said: “The Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica) is a global symbol of successful wildlife conservation. On this World Lion Day, we celebrate their remarkable recovery. From just 284 lions in 1990, the population has now risen to 891 in 2025 — a 32 per cent increase since 2020 and over 70 per cent growth in the past decade.”

“It is heartening to note that such remarkable growth has been made possible through collective will, dedication and policies rooted in co-existence,” he said.

At the event, Yadav announced a Rs 180 crore plan for conservation and tourism infrastructure in Barda Wildlife Sanctuary. This includes facilities for visitors, roads, water sources and veterinary care.

Barda currently has 17 lions — six adults and 11 cubs — which moved there naturally in 2023. The Gujarat government has granted in-principle approval for a safari park and zoo in Barda.

A National Referral Centre for Wildlife Healthcare is planned in Junagadh district, with 20.24 hectares of land already allocated.

Project Lion, launched on August 15, 2020, has a budget of Rs 2,927.71 crore over 10 years. It covers the Greater Gir Landscape, which spans 11 districts of Gujarat. The programme focuses on creating satellite habitats for lions beyond Gir, improving veterinary facilities, and involving local communities in conservation.

It also includes disease surveillance, genetic diversity initiatives and measures to reduce human-lion conflict through awareness programmes and technology-based monitoring.

World Lion Day celebrations were held across all districts of the lion landscape, connected to the main event via satellite. Schools took part in awareness activities. In 2024, 18.63 lakh students participated virtually.

The Asiatic lion is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List. Its only wild population is found in Gujarat. Conservation efforts began in the early 20th century after the population dropped to fewer than 20 individuals.

The Gir National Park and surrounding sanctuaries remain the core habitat for the species. In recent years, lions have been recorded in coastal areas and agricultural land, prompting expansion of suitable habitats to reduce conflict.