Project Asiatic Lion
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Project Asiatic Lion

Context

  • Recently, Project Lion, implemented in the Gir landscape of Gujarat, focuses on landscape ecology-based conservation of the Asiatic Lion, integrating conservation with eco-development.

About Asiatic Lion

  • Asiatic lions are smaller than African lions and Male Asiatic lions have shorter manes, primarily growing at the top of their heads, keeping their ears visible.
  • Unique feature: Longitudinal fold of skin along their bellies, absent in African lions.
  • Protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, listed under Schedule 1.
  • Listed in CITES Appendix I, requiring strict conservation efforts.
  • Classified as endangered by the IUCN Red List, highlighting conservation urgency.
  • Historically found in regions like West Bengal and Madhya Pradesh, now confined to Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat.

ASIATIC LION CONSERVATION PROJECT

  • Launched by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
  • Approved for the 2018–2021 period, focusing on the lions of Gujarat’s Gir landscape.
  • Part of a broader initiative prioritizing 21 critically endangered species.
  • Holistic approach combining scientific management and community involvement.
  • Collaboration with agencies addressing disease management and veterinary care.
  • Focus on “Species Conservation over a large landscape” for long-term preservation.

PROJECT LION

  • A targeted conservation initiative for Asiatic lions in Gujarat, particularly in the Gir landscape.
  • Integrates landscape ecology-based conservation with eco-development strategies.

KEY OBJECTIVES OF PROJECT LION

  • Secure and Restore Lion Habitats
  • Livelihood Generation and Community Involvement.
  • Global Hub for Big Cat Disease Research
  • Inclusive Biodiversity Conservation

DISTRIBUTION

  • Asiatic lions are found in nine Gujarat districts: Junagadh, Gir Somnath, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Botad, Porbandar, Jamnagar, Rajkot, and Surendranagar.
  • The Asiatic Lion Landscape spans approximately 30,000 square kilometers.
  • The “Lion @ 47: Vision for Amrutkal” document was launched by the Minister of State for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change to show ecology-based conservation of the Asiatic Lion in Gujarat
  • Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat (100 km from Gir National Park) identified as a potential second home for Asiatic lions.

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