The story so far
Gujarat Forest Department released results of the 16th Lion Population Estimation (lion census).
This is the first census after 2020.
What are its key findings?
Lion population in Gujarat rose 32% from 2020 to 2025, now 891 lions.
Adult females increased by 27% to 330.
New lion groups found outside Gir in places like Barda Wildlife Sanctuary and Jetpur.
Over 10 years, lion numbers rose by 70%, and their habitat grew by 59%.
Amreli district has the highest number of lions (339), followed by Gir-Somnath (222) and Junagadh (191).
How has the spatial coverage of lions grown?
Lion habitat expanded steadily over the years:
From 10,000 sq km (1995) to 35,000 sq km (2025).
This five-fold habitat growth matches with a three-fold increase in lions.
Expansion is due to conservation and natural lion movement.
How are lions counted?
Survey done from May 10-13, 2025, covering 35,000 sq km and 11 districts.
Area divided into 735 units; each unit had a team for data collection.
Lions were directly observed and photographed to identify individuals.
Experts and independent observers ensured accuracy.
About 3,254 people participated in the census.
Can the lion population expand unabated?
Lion growth is good but creates challenges.
Lions moving outside protected zones leads to conflicts with humans.
Local communities like Maldharis tolerate lions despite cattle losses, which the government compensates.
Experts say Gujarat can hold up to 2,000 lions, but they should ideally stay in areas without humans.
What are future plans for lion conservation?
Prime Minister Modi approved ‘Project Lion’ with ₹2,927 crore budget.
First step: develop Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, home to 17 lions.
Plans include involving local communities in tourism and rewarding conservation efforts.
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