Asiatic Lion Population of Gir Lions Rises by 29% in 5 Years
- The population of Asiatic lions in Gujarat’s Gir forest has increased by almost 29 per cent, according to a report released by the state.
- Participation of local community has helped in increasing Asiatic lion population in Gujarat’s Gir forest, a senior environment ministry official said.
- Soumitra Dasgupta, Inspector General, Wildlife, Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, said a land project initiated in 2018, which is in the midst of implementation, will further help in the conservation and protection of Asiatic lions in the state.
- The species is doing excellent and the number is going up. Participation of the local population has helped, habitat has improved, he said.
- One land project has also been initiated in 2018 at the behest of the prime minister. We are in the midst of implementation. The project is to give the lions a proper habitat and improve veterinarian facilities to tackle diseases and livelihood to the local population who live around the sanctuary, Dasgupta said.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, Two very good news: Population of the majestic Asiatic Lion, living in Gujarat’s Gir Forest, is up by almost 29%. Geographically, the distribution area is up by 36%. Kudos to the people of Gujarat and all those whose efforts have led to this excellent feat.
- The population of 674 comprised 161 males, 260 females, 116 sub-adult lions and 137 cubs, it said.
- The Lion Census involves larger participation. Around 2,000 officers, experts and volunteers were involved in the 2015 Census. That makes the Census more transparent. The lion ‘observation’ this month was conducted by around 1,400 forest staff and a few experts..
About Gir NAtional Park and Wildlife Sanctuary-
Gir Forest National Park is a wildlife sanctuary in Gujarat, western India. It was established to protect Asiatic lions, who frequent the fenced-off Devalia Safari Park, along with leopards and antelopes. Gir Jungle Trail, outside the fenced area, traverses deciduous forest and is home to wildlife including vultures and pythons. The Kamleshwar Dam has marsh crocodiles and birds, such as Indian skimmers and pelicans.
- Established – 1965
जीके और दैनिक करेंट अफेयर्स अपडेट हिंदी में प्राप्त करें – क्लिक करें
