India’s commitment to wildlife conservation has taken a significant leap forward with the launch of Project Lion, a dedicated initiative aimed at protecting and expanding the population of Asiatic lions. With a substantial budget of Rs 2,927.71 crore, this project underscores the government’s determination to ensure the long-term survival of this majestic species.
The Context: Why Project Lion?
The Asiatic lion, once widespread across Asia, is now confined to Gujarat’s Gir Forest and surrounding areas. According to the 2020 census, the lion population stood at 674 individuals, marking a 29% increase from 2015. Despite this positive trend, the species remains critically endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, disease outbreaks, and human-wildlife conflict. Project Lion seeks to mitigate these threats through strategic conservation measures.
Objectives of Project Lion
The primary goal of Project Lion is to ensure the long-term survival of Asiatic lions by focusing on:
- Habitat Management
- Wildlife Health Monitoring
- Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation
- Community Involvement
- Eco-Tourism Development
- Advanced Technology for Monitoring and Protection
Key Components of Project Lion
1. Habitat Management
To reduce the risks of overpopulation in Gir Forest, the project is working on developing alternative habitats:
- Barda Dungar Wildlife Sanctuary, located 100 km from Gir, is being prepared as a new lion habitat. The first lion was spotted here in 2023, confirming its potential.
- Additional habitat sites have been proposed in Saurashtra, including Girnar, Mitiyala, Jesor-Hipawadi, Hingolgadh, and Rajula to Jafrabad.
2. Wildlife Health Monitoring
Disease outbreaks have posed significant threats to Asiatic lions, with Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) and Babesia leading to deaths in 2018 and 2020. To tackle this, the government is:
- Establishing a Veterinary Hospital in Sasan, Gir, which will function as a National Wildlife Disease Diagnostic Centre.
- Implementing strict health protocols to prevent disease transmission.
3. Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation
With the increasing lion population, encounters with humans have also risen. To foster coexistence, Project Lion has introduced:
- 1,000 sq. km of exclusive lion habitat, achieved by relocating human settlements.
- 11,000 machans (raised platforms) to help farmers guard crops from lions.
- More lion-friendly zones in Saurashtra, ensuring sustainable expansion.
4. Community Involvement and Technological Advancements
- Local communities are being actively involved in conservation efforts, ensuring coexistence and awareness.
- Drone monitoring, CCTV surveillance, and 33 rapid response units have been introduced for lion protection.
- 100 new tracker positions have been created to monitor and rescue lions.
5. Strengthening Conservation Efforts through Recruitment & Training
To support Project Lion, 237 beat guards were recruited in 2024. Their responsibilities include patrolling, preventing conflicts, and community engagement. Their specialized training ensures they are well-equipped to handle challenges related to wildlife safety.
A Future of Hope for Asiatic Lions
Project Lion is a visionary step towards ensuring the survival of Asiatic lions while maintaining ecological balance. By combining scientific research, habitat expansion, technological interventions, and community participation, this initiative promises a brighter future for one of India’s most iconic species. With continued efforts, the roar of the Asiatic lion will echo far beyond Gir Forest for generations to come.