Modi Highlights India’s Wildlife Leadership on World Wildlife Day, Shares Ancient Sanskrit Wisdom

New Delhi | March 3, 2026: On the occasion of World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s strong commitment to preserving biodiversity and safeguarding natural habitats. He described the day as a celebration of the planet’s rich animal life and an opportunity to recognize those dedicated to conservation efforts.

In his message, the Prime Minister noted that India takes pride in hosting some of the world’s most remarkable wildlife species. He emphasized that the country is home to more than 70 percent of the global tiger population, supports the largest number of one-horned rhinoceroses, and has the highest population of Asiatic elephants. He also highlighted that India remains the only nation where the Asiatic lion continues to live in the wild.

Underlining the government’s conservation initiatives, Modi referred to the establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance, created to promote cooperation and exchange of best practices among countries for the protection of big cats. He also mentioned focused programmes aimed at conserving species such as the Great Indian Bustard, Gharial, and Sloth Bear, along with ongoing efforts to reintroduce cheetahs into suitable habitats.

Reflecting on India’s cultural traditions, the Prime Minister said the country’s scriptures advocate compassion and well-being for all living beings. To illustrate this enduring philosophy, he shared a Sanskrit Subhashitam that underscores the mutual dependence between forests and tigers:

“Without forests, tigers cannot survive; and without tigers, forests are destroyed. Therefore, the tiger protects the forest, and the forest protects the tiger.”

The verse conveys that forests and tigers sustain each other—without forests, tigers cannot survive, and without tigers, forests deteriorate-highlighting the interconnected balance within nature.

Through a series of posts on social media platform X, the Prime Minister reiterated India’s resolve to pursue sustainable practices and strengthen habitat protection, ensuring that wildlife continues to flourish for generations to come.