Project Lion

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Project Lion

Project Lion

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Announced on August 15, 2020, ‘Project Lion’ is a pivotal initiative aimed at securing the future of Asiatic lions through comprehensive, long-term conservation efforts. This ambitious project focuses on creating a sustainable environment where lions can thrive, thereby contributing to the overall health of their ecosystems.
Key components of the initiative include habitat improvement, monitoring through advanced technologies like radio-collaring and camera traps, and addressing human-wildlife conflict.
Key Focus Areas:
- Landscape ecology-based conservation, ensuring sustainable lion habitats.
- Habitat restoration and securing additional areas for lions.
- Community participation, creating livelihood opportunities for local residents.
- Disease management, establishing India as a global hub for big cat health research and treatment.
It envisage activities which ensure overall conservation of the entire ecosystem inhabited by these flagship species.
Project Lion is being implemented by the State Government of Gujarat and other stakeholders like Central Zoo Authority.

Asiatic Lion Population

Population Growth
- India’s Asiatic lion population, all of which is found exclusively in Gujarat, has shown a 32% increase between 2020 and 2025, reaching 891 individuals in the latest survey.
- A key highlight is the 27% rise in adult female lions, now at 330, which bodes well for future population growth.
Distribution Across Gujarat
- While Gir National Park remains the core habitat, the new estimate includes satellite populations now thriving in:
  - Barda Wildlife Sanctuary
  - Jetpur and adjoining areas
  - Babra-Jasdan and adjoining areas
- There are now 497 lions in nine satellite regions, indicating a growing and expanding distribution beyond the traditional core area.
Decadal Growth Trend
- Between 2015 and 2025, the lion population rose by 70.36% (from 523 to 891), while the geographical distribution increased by 59.09%, showing a strong correlation between conservation efforts and habitat expansion.
District-Wise Lion Count (2025)
- Amreli: 339 lions (Highest)
- Gir-Somnath: 222 lions
- Junagadh: 191 lions
Source:16th Lion Population Estimation/Lion census.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Project Lion

Q1. What is Project Lion?

Project Lion is a conservation initiative launched on August 15, 2020, aimed at ensuring the long-term survival of the Asiatic lion through habitat restoration, ecosystem conservation, community engagement, and advanced monitoring.

Q4. Who is implementing Project Lion?

The project is being implemented by the State Government of Gujarat, with support from stakeholders like the Central Zoo Authority

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