India’s Lion Conservation: An Example

• Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav praises India’s relationship with nature and wildlife, highlighting the rise in the Asiatic lion population in Gujarat.

• Yadav cites the commitment of India to work for nature’s conservation through wildlife rehabilitation.

• The estimated population of Asiatic lion has increased to 891 from 674 five years ago, indicating India’s close relationship with nature and wildlife.

• Yadav praised the unique bond between the pastoralist Maldhari community and lions as a model of coexistence.

• He noted that the number of tiger reserves in India has risen to 58, hosting 70% of the global tiger population.

• Yadav also highlighted ongoing projects like Project Lion, Project Tiger, Project Elephant, Project Dolphin, and Project Great Indian Bustard, reinforcing India’s conservation leadership.

• He also emphasized the need for global cooperation in conserving all seven big cat species found across 97 countries, especially in Africa and Asia.

• Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched 11 eco-development projects worth ₹189 crore, including a new safari park, interpretation centre, and breeding centre at Barda.