PM Modi’s Leadership Powers Project Lion’s Success, Says Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav

The Union Minister expressed pride over the significant increase in India’s Asiatic lion population, now numbering 891 — up from 674 in 2020. He called the achievement a global example of successful wildlife protection, noting that the population has grown by 32% in the last five years and over 70% in the past decade.

Crediting the achievement to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s long-standing commitment, both as Chief Minister of Gujarat and as Prime Minister, Yadav said Project Lion has been a priority for the government since its announcement on Independence Day in 2020. He applauded forest officials, conservationists, and citizens for their dedication to coexistence and sustainable conservation.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reaffirmed Gujarat’s position as the sole habitat for the Asiatic lion and the state’s ongoing commitment to their protection. He noted that the return of lions to the Barda region after 143 years marks an ecological milestone. New projects worth ₹180 crore, including habitat expansion, advanced veterinary facilities, and ecotourism infrastructure, are set to strengthen conservation and community livelihoods.

Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, covering over 192 sq. km in Porbandar and Devbhumi Dwarka districts, has become a thriving second home for lions, now hosting 17 individuals, including 6 adults and 11 cubs. The sanctuary is also poised to gain a safari park over 248 hectares, enhancing both tourism and wildlife protection.

Project Lion, with a budget of ₹2,927.71 crore over ten years, continues to drive the long-term preservation of Asiatic lions. The plan includes a National Referral Centre for wildlife healthcare in Junagadh, already allocated 20.24 hectares of land.

World Lion Day events were simultaneously held across 11 districts of Saurashtra, engaging lakhs of students through satellite-linked participation. In 2024, more than 18.6 lakh students took part in awareness activities, underscoring the importance of conserving the “King of the Jungle.”