Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav recently praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for initiating Project Lion in 2020. This project has successfully boosted the population of Asiatic lions from 674 to 891.
At the World Lion Day event in Gujarat’s Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Yadav emphasized the importance of conserving the “King of the Jungle.” He noted that the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) is a symbol of effective wildlife conservation. In 1990, there were just 284 lions, but as of 2025, the number has soared to 891. That’s a 32% increase since 2020 and an impressive 70% growth over the last decade.
Yadav acknowledged the hard work of forest officials, wildlife enthusiasts, and conservationists, attributing the lion population surge to their collective efforts and strong conservation policies. To further bolster lion conservation and ecotourism, the government launched a ₹180 crore initiative.
“It’s a point of great pride that the Asiatic lion thrives in Gir National Park, and our conservation efforts have doubled their numbers in just ten years,” Yadav said. He encouraged everyone to participate in safeguarding this majestic species, which represents Gujarat’s heritage and India’s ecological strength.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reaffirmed the state’s dedication to lion protection. He highlighted the establishment of new habitats and advanced veterinary facilities, marking a significant advance in conservation efforts. Remarkably, after 143 years, lions have returned to the Barda region, helping restore ecological balance.
The excitement of World Lion Day reached thousands of students across 11 districts in Gujarat, celebrating the importance of lion conservation. This annual event, observed on August 10, aims to increase awareness about protecting lions globally.
On August 15, 2020, during Independence Day, PM Modi unveiled Project Lion, aimed at ensuring long-term conservation of the Asiatic lion. The Ministry of Environment and Forests has approved a decade-long project with a budget of ₹2,927.71 crore dedicated to lion conservation, including plans for a National Referral Centre for wildlife healthcare.
This strong conservation framework, combined with community involvement, could set a model for protecting other endangered species around the world. As social media buzzes with support for lion conservation, the collective actions taken today may lead to significant changes tomorrow.
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World Lion Day, Project Lion, wildlife conservation, Asiatic lions, Bhupender Yadav
