India Roars with Pride: Asiatic Lions Rise to 891 on World Lion Day 2025
A milestone for wildlife conservation in Gujarat and India
On World Lion Day 2025, India marked a historic moment. The Asiatic lion population has risen to 891, showing a 32% growth since 2020.
The celebrations at Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat reflected a deep national pride. It was also a tribute to years of conservation work.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel led the event. Thousands attended in person, while lakhs joined online. This was more than a ceremony — it was proof of strategic planning, public support, and strong leadership.
From Decline to Record Numbers
The Asiatic lion’s journey is remarkable. In 1990, there were only 284 lions. By 2020, the count reached 674. Now, in 2025, it stands at 891 — all in Gujarat.
Bhupender Yadav called this rise an “astounding success of conservation.”
He credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who launched Project Lion on August 15, 2020. The mission aimed to protect the King of the Jungle and secure its future.
Project Lion: A National Priority
Project Lion is a 10-year plan worth ₹2,927.71 crore. It focuses on habitat management, veterinary care, conflict mitigation, and eco-tourism.
A National Referral Centre for wildlife healthcare is under construction on 20.24 hectares in Junagadh, Gujarat. This strengthens Gujarat’s role as the only global home of the Asiatic lion.
“If the Asiatic lion exists anywhere in the world today, it is in Gir, Gujarat,” Yadav said. “This is a matter of immense national pride.”
Barda Wildlife Sanctuary: The Lion’s New Home
Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, covering 192.31 sq. km in Porbandar and Devbhumi Dwarka districts, is emerging as a second home for lions. In 2023, they migrated naturally to the area. Today, it hosts 17 lions, including 6 adults and 11 cubs.
The government has launched a ₹180 crore initiative to expand habitats, build veterinary facilities, and create a 248-hectare safari park. This will promote both conservation and tourism, especially along the Dwarka–Porbandar–Somnath circuit.
Community and Student Involvement
World Lion Day celebrations were held in 11 districts of Saurashtra. Lakhs of students participated virtually, showing public interest in conservation.
In 2024, 18.63 lakh students took part in lion awareness programs. This proves the conservation message is reaching the younger generation.
Gujarat’s Commitment to Lion Conservation
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reaffirmed Gujarat’s dedication to protecting its lions. He noted that after 143 years, lions have returned to the Barda region. This strengthens ecological balance and biodiversity.
He also stressed that conservation brings economic benefits. It creates jobs and supports local livelihoods while protecting nature.
Key Facts and Figures
- Asiatic lion population in 1990: 284
- Population in 2020: 674
- Population in 2025: 891 (+32% since 2020)
- Project Lion budget: ₹2,927.71 crore (10 years)
- Barda Wildlife Sanctuary area: 192.31 sq. km
- Planned Barda Safari Park: 248 hectares
- Wildlife investment in 2025: ₹180 crore
- Tourism link: Part of Dwarka–Porbandar–Somnath circuit
A Global Model for Conservation
The Asiatic lion’s comeback is being hailed worldwide. It is now a model for endangered species protection.
Under PM Modi, the focus has shifted from survival to co-existence — where people and wildlife share resources without conflict.
“The roar of the Asiatic lion remains the pride of Gujarat and the heritage of India,” Yadav said.
Conclusion
World Lion Day 2025 was not just about numbers. It was about hope, pride, and commitment to the future.
With record growth in lion numbers, major investments, and community involvement, India has set a global benchmark in conservation.
The roar from Gujarat’s forests now calls for protecting not just lions, but all species that keep our planet alive.
