Roaring Success: The Rise of Gir Lions

Efforts in conservation and management have led to a significant increase in the lion population in the Gir landscape, Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav declared. He noted that these measures have raised the lion count to approximately 891 by 2025, reflecting a 32% rise since 2020.

Yadav highlighted the importance of the Gir lion as a symbol of Gujarat's natural heritage and the nation's pride. He made these remarks at an event in Sasan Gir, organized in anticipation of the International Big Cat Alliance Summit 2026 set for June.

The summit aims to unite global leaders, policymakers, and conservationists to discuss big cat conservation. A wide array of topics, from policy synergy to showcasing conservation innovations, will be addressed to enhance international cooperation for protecting iconic big cat species.

(With inputs from agencies.)