Asiatic Lion Population in Gujarat Increases by 32% in Five Years
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 32% Increase in Asiatic Lion Population (2020-2025) |
| Date of Census Release | May 21, 2025 |
| Total Lion Population (2025) | 891 lions |
| Previous Population (2020) | 674 lions |
| Adult Females (2025) | 330 (27% increase) |
| Territory Expansion | 35,000 sq. km (16.67% increase from 30,000 sq. km in 2020) |
| Lions Outside Protected Areas | Over 50% (11 districts of Saurashtra) |
| Satellite Populations | 497 lions in 9 regions (e.g., Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Jetpur, Babra-Jasdan, Mityala Sanctuary) |
| New Corridor Area | 22 lions recorded |
| Challenges | Human-wildlife conflict, livestock attacks rising by 10% annually |
| Livestock Killed | 15% annual rise per village |
| Local Tolerance | 61% of locals remain tolerant |
| Conservation Initiative | Project Lion, approved in March 2025, with ₹2,900 crore outlay |
| Primary Habitat | Gir National Park and surrounding areas |