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11 June,2020.
Introducton:
.According to a recent roport the population of the Asiatic lion living in the Gir Forest in Gujarat is up by almost 29% and, geographically, the distribution area is up by 36%. The good news was shared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Twitter and Instagram on June 10,2020.
Highlights:
- Asiatic lion population has increased by 29%.
- In 2015 the number was 523 and in 2020 it has risen to 674.
- There is an increase of 36% in the distribution area of lions.
- In 2015 it was 22,000 sq km in 2020 it has increased to 30,000 sq km.
- However, the Gir lions continue to remain in the protected environs of Gir Forest in Saurashtra Gujrat.
Reasons for the increase in population:
- Minimsing the human- lion conflict.
- Effective conservation and management by the Govt of Gujrat.
- Wildlife Healthcare.
- Community Participation.
- Emphasis on technology.
About the Asiatic Lions:
- The Asiatic lion is a Panthera leo leo population in India.
- Its current range is restricted to the Gir National Park and environs in the Indian state of Gujarat.
- Historically, it inhabited much of Western Asia and the Middle East up to northern India.
- This lion population has steadily increased since 2010.
- IUCN Status: Endangered.
- They are listed in the Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.