Gujarat: On August 10, 2025, Gujarat played host to a historic celebration of World Lion Day at the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Devbhumi Dwarka district, underscoring India’s continued leadership in Asiatic lion conservation. Presided by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Bhupender Yadav and Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, the event witnessed participation from state officials, conservationists, public representatives, and lakhs of students from across Saurashtra.
Triumph of Project Lion Under PM Modi’s Vision
Union Minister Shri Bhupender Yadav praised the “remarkable recovery” of India’s lion population, which has grown to 891 lions in 2025 from 674 in 2020—a phenomenal 32% increase in five years (and over 70% in the past decade). The success was attributed to Project Lion, a flagship initiative announced by Prime Minister Modi on Independence Day 2020, aimed at long-term conservation, habitat expansion, and community engagement for the “King of the Jungle.”
Calling the achievement an “astounding success of conservation,” Shri Yadav credited PM Modi’s legacy of prioritising lions both as Chief Minister of Gujarat and as Prime Minister. He commended forest officials, wildlife enthusiasts, and communities, describing the growth as a result of collective will and dedication to co-existence.
Barda: Gujarat’s Second Lion Home and New Conservation Milestones
Celebrations at Barda Wildlife Sanctuary highlighted its emergence as Gujarat’s second home for Asiatic lions, following the natural migration in 2023. The lion population in Barda has now reached 17, including 6 adults and 11 cubs, indicating ecological renewal in the region after 143 years. Gujarat’s CM Bhupendra Patel reaffirmed the state’s commitment to scientific conservation, community participation, and enhanced eco-tourism infrastructure.
An ambitious ₹180 crore wildlife conservation initiative was launched at the event, aimed at new habitats, advanced veterinary care, and promoting Barda as a key eco-tourism destination. Development plans include a safari park in 248 hectares and the Government of India’s approval for a new Barda Safari Park and Zoo, further strengthening conservation and ecotourism.
Project Lion: National Commitment and Next Steps
Project Lion is backed by a 10-year, ₹2,927.71 crore budget from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The project includes establishment of a National Referral Centre for wildlife healthcare on 20.24 hectares in Junagadh, further supporting scientific research and veterinary excellence.
The success story is rooted in proactive measures—habitat management, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and livelihood opportunities for local communities—ensuring both lions and people thrive. The scope of conservation covers a vast Greater Gir Landscape, spanning 35,000 sq. km in 11 districts, with government policies focused on long-term sustainability.
Mass Participation and Education for Conservation
A highlight of World Lion Day was massive virtual participation—from lakhs of students in 11 districts, with 18.63 lakh joining in 2024—reflecting not just government and NGO engagement, but also the growing enthusiasm among youth for wildlife protection. The event fostered pride and awareness around Gujarat’s status as the sole global home for the Asiatic Lion.
Conclusion: Gujarat Leads the Roar of Conservation Success
Gujarat’s celebrations for World Lion Day 2025 marked a pivotal moment in India’s wildlife conservation journey. With visionary leadership, robust scientific measures, and spirited community engagement, the state has secured both the future of the Asiatic Lion and its own place as a model for effective conservation. The return of lions to Barda, doubling of the population in ten years, and major investments in ecotourism and wildlife healthcare all signal a thriving landscape where the pride of Gujarat remains the heritage of India. On August 10, 2025, Gujarat played host to a historic celebration of World Lion Day at the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Devbhumi Dwarka district, underscoring India’s continued leadership in Asiatic lion conservation.
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Source: PIB
