March 5, 2025
Introduction:
The Indian government launched the Project Lion to protect and expand the population of Asiatic lions. The project was approved with a substantial budget of Rs 2,927.71 crore, reflecting the government’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
Context
- The Asiatic lion population is currently concentrated in Gujarat, with a census reporting 674 individuals in 2020 (29% increase from 2015).
- This species is critically endangered, facing threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
- Project Lion aims to mitigate these challenges through various strategic measures.
Objectives of Project Lion
The primary goal of Project Lion is to ensure the long-term survival of Asiatic lions. This includes habitat management, wildlife health monitoring, community involvement, and eco-tourism development. The project seeks to create a harmonious balance between human activities and wildlife conservation.
Key Components
Habitat Management:
- Barda Dungar Wildlife Sanctuary (100 km from Gir) will be developed as an alternative habitat. First lion spotted in Barda in 2023, confirming its potential as a habitat.
- Additional habitats were proposed in Saurashtra, including Girnar, Mitiyala, Jesor-Hipawadi, Hingolgadh, and Rajula to Jafrabad.
Wildlife Health Monitoring:
- Establishing health protocols to prevent disease outbreaks among lions.
- Veterinary Hospital in Sasan, Gir (National Wildlife Disease Diagnostic Centre) will be set up. It will monitor and prevent diseases like Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) and Babesia, which have posed threat to lions in 2018 and 2020.
Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation:
- 1,000 sq. km. of exclusive lion habitat planned by relocating human settlements.
- 11,000 machans (raised platforms) provided for farmers to prevent conflicts.
- More lion habitats proposed in Saurashtra, including Girnar, Mitiyala, Jesor-Hipawadi, Hingolgadh, and Rajula to Jafrabad.
Other Measures
- Involving local communities in conservation efforts to encourage coexistence.
- Drone monitoring, CCTV surveillance, and 33 rapid response units for lion protection.
- 100 new tracker positions to rescue lions.
Recruitment and Training
To boost conservation efforts, 237 beat guards were recruited in 2024. These guards play an essential role in patrolling protected areas and preventing conflicts. Their training includes wildlife safety protocols and community engagement strategies.