Lion count rises 32% in 5 years, beyond protected regions

• Lion population in Gujarat, primarily concentrated in Gujarat, has increased by 32% between 2020 and 2025.

• The number of adult females, a proxy for future growth, rose by 27% to 330 individuals.

• The highest number of lions, 394, were observed in Gir National Park and Paniya Wildlife Sanctuary.

• More lions are reported outside the core protected zone, leading to increased proximity to human settlements and conflict.

• Y.V. Jhala, an expert on lion conservation, emphasizes the need for new habitats for lions to live without human contact.

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved ‘Project Lion’ in March to improve lion habitat and develop new habitats within Gujarat.

• The territorial range of lions expanded from 30,000 sq. km to 35,000 sq. km by 2025