Asiatic lion count in India sees sharp rise, reaches 891: Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav

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Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced a milestone in India’s wildlife conservation efforts, revealing that the Asiatic lion population has increased from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025.

New Delhi [India], May 22 (HBTV): Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Tuesday announced a major milestone in India’s wildlife conservation efforts, revealing that the Asiatic lion population has increased from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025. He described the surge as a ‘landmark success’ and credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership—first as Gujarat Chief Minister and later as Prime Minister—for prioritising Project Lion.

In a post on X, Yadav said: ‘It is really heartening to note that the number of lions in India has risen to 891 from 674 in 2020. This astounding success of conservation has been achieved due to the concerted efforts of PM Shri @narendramodi ji, who first as Gujarat CM, and then as Indian PM, made Project Lion a priority area of action.’

He congratulated forest officials, wildlife lovers, and environment enthusiasts, urging all to continue working towards a Viksit Bharat where both people and wildlife thrive together.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, noting that his consistent support and vision had created widespread awareness and community involvement in lion conservation. ‘Respected Prime Minister, my heartfelt gratitude to you for your vision and continued encouragement to protect the Asiatic lion and other wildlife. The efforts being made to protect wildlife in Gujarat under your guidance have generated unprecedented awareness among local people and tourists alike about lion conservation. Project Lion has become the cornerstone in creating an ecosystem for the conservation and promotion of lions,’ he said.

Patel reiterated Gujarat’s commitment to working in close coordination with the Centre to continue the momentum in wildlife conservation. He also appreciated the dedication shown by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav and thanked all stakeholders involved in the success of Project Lion.

Responding to Patel's remarks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his thoughts on X, writing: ‘Very exciting information! It brings me immense happiness to see that under “Project Lion”, the efforts being undertaken are not only providing a suitable environment for lions in Gujarat but also ensuring their protection.’

Project Lion has been approved by the Union Environment Ministry with a budget of INR 2,927.71 crore. It represents a transformative initiative aimed at ensuring the long-term survival of Asiatic lions through strategic habitat development, scientific management, and community engagement.

The initiative includes a broad spectrum of conservation measures:

  • Recruitment of 237 beat guards (162 men and 75 women) in 2024 to patrol protected areas and prevent human-wildlife conflict.

  • Deployment of 92 rescue vehicles for emergency wildlife response and care.

  • Construction of 11,000 machans to help farmers protect crops while coexisting safely with lions.

  • Building of parapet walls around 55,108 open wells to prevent accidental wildlife falls and protect both animals and water sources.

The launch of Project Lion marks a significant chapter in India’s conservation journey. With Gujarat leading the way, the initiative aims to secure the future of the Asiatic lion and reinforce India's global reputation in wildlife conservation.

(ANI)