CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
In a significant boost for wildlife conservation in India, the Gujarat Forest Department has announced a 32% increase in the population of Asiatic lions over the past five years, bringing the total to 891 individuals as of 2025. This milestone highlights the success of various conservation initiatives, particularly under the ambitious Project Lion, though it also brings to light growing concerns over human-wildlife interactions due to the species' expanding habitat.
On May 21, 2025, the Gujarat Forest Department released findings from the 16th Asiatic Lion Census, revealing a substantial rise in lion numbers since the previous count in 2020. The update gains further importance following the government's renewed focus on lion conservation, marked by the launch of Project Lion earlier this year, which includes a budget of ?2,900 crore aimed at improving habitats and management.
Conservation Achievements
The Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) is endemic to India, primarily residing in Gir National Park and adjoining areas.
The lion population rose from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025, a 32% increase.
A significant 27% rise in adult females was recorded, bringing their total to 330, indicating positive breeding trends.
Expanding Habitat
The total lion range expanded by 16.67%, from 30,000 sq. km in 2020 to 35,000 sq. km in 2025.
Over 50% of lions now live outside protected zones, including 11 districts across Saurashtra, some of which are coastal or human-populated.
Emerging Satellite Populations
The census has identified several satellite lion populations, including:
Barda Wildlife Sanctuary
Jetpur
Babra-Jasdan belt
Mityala Wildlife Sanctuary, where numbers have doubled to 32 lions
22 lions now recorded in previously uncharted corridor areas
Growing Human-Wildlife Interface
The expanding lion territory has led to an increase in human-lion encounters.
Reports indicate a 10% annual rise in livestock depredation, with a 15% increase in livestock killed per village.
Despite these challenges, 61% of the local population continues to support lion conservation.
Experts emphasize the urgent need for sustainable land-use strategies to balance conservation and human livelihood.
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