India’s Asiatic lion population has reached 891, marking a 32% increase since 2020 and more than 70% growth in the past decade, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced on World Lion Day celebrations at Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat’s Devbhumi Dwarka district on Sunday.
Calling the rise an “astounding success of conservation,” Yadav credited the achievement to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, noting his long-standing commitment to Project Lion – first as Gujarat Chief Minister and later as Prime Minister.
“It is a matter of immense national pride that if the Asiatic lion exists anywhere in the world today, it is in Gir, Gujarat. Our relentless conservation efforts have doubled their population in the past decade, giving hope to global wildlife protection. Let today’s inauguration inspire all to protect this majestic animal—the true symbol of Gujarat’s heritage and India’s ecological strength,” Yadav said.
The event, organised jointly by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Gujarat government, was attended by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat Forest Minister Mulubhai Bera, MPs, MLAs, and other dignitaries. Despite being held in a remote sanctuary, the celebration connected virtually with lakhs of students across 11 districts in the Greater Gir Lion Landscape.
CM Patel announced that lions had returned to the Barda region after 143 years, with the local population now numbering 17, including six adults and 11 cubs. He highlighted new conservation investments worth ₹180 crore, including advanced veterinary facilities, eco-tourism infrastructure, and proactive habitat management. “The roar of the Asiatic lion will remain the pride of Gujarat and the heritage of India,” he said.
The 192 sq. km Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is emerging as a second home for lions, strategically located near the Dwarka-Porbandar-Somnath tourist circuit. The state has allocated land for a 248-hectare safari park, and the Centre has given in-principle approval for a Barda Safari Park and Zoo to boost ecotourism and conservation.
Project Lion, announced by PM Modi during his 2020 Independence Day address, is a 10-year, ₹2,927.71 crore programme aimed at ensuring the long-term survival of Asiatic lions through habitat expansion, healthcare, and community participation.
World Lion Day is observed globally on August 10 to raise awareness about lion conservation. Gujarat remains the sole home of the Asiatic lion, whose natural range now spans 35,000 sq. km across 11 districts of Saurashtra.