File image of an Asiatic Lioness with her two Seven-month-old cubs at Sakkarbaugh Safari breeding centre in Junagadh
| Photo Credit: The Hindu
The story so far: The Gujarat Forest Department this week released results from the 16th Lion Population Estimation, popularly referred to as the ‘lion census.’ This was the first such census since 2020.
What are its key findings?
India’s wild lion population, all of which is concentrated in Gujarat, has risen by 32% from 2020-25, with 891 lions reported in the latest survey. The number of adult females — an indicator of future growth — rose 27% to 330 individuals. While the heart of the lion population continues to be Gir, the current population estimate includes new satellite populations. They have been spotted at Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Jetpur and adjoining areas, Babra-Jasdan and adjoining areas, increasing the total number of Asiatic lions in satellite populations to 497 across nine such regions. The lion population has increased by 70.36% in the past decade (523 in 2015 to 891 in 2025), whereas the area of distribution has increased by 59.09%, the report noted.
Amreli district reported the highest population of 339 lions. This was followed by the Gir-Somnath district region (222 lions) and Junagadh (191 lions).
How has the spatial coverage of lions grown?
From 1995 to 2001, the area where lions are present expanded from 10,000 sq. km to 12,000 sq km, marking a 20% increase. By 2005, it reached 13,000 sq. km, showing an 8.3% rise over the previous estimate. A more substantial expansion occurred between 2005 and 2010, with the area growing to 20,000 sq. km, an increase of 53.8%. In 2015, the spread rose further to 22,000 sq. km, a 10% increase. From 2015 to 2020, the range extended to 30,000 sq. km, reflecting a 36.4% growth. Finally, by 2025, the area reached 35,000 sq. km, registering a 16.67% increase over the 2020 figure. This progressive expansion demonstrates consistent range growth and is attributed to conservation efforts and natural lion dispersal. From 1990 to 2025, the area has grown about five-fold whereas the lion population has grown about three-fold.
How are lions counted?
The latest survey was undertaken from May 10-13, 2025. The estimation spanned approximately 35,000 sq km, covering 11 districts and 58 tehsils. The region was divided into 735 sampling units and each sampling unit had an enumerator and two assistants, ensuring thorough survey and data collection. “Observations of direct sightings were recorded in the prescribed forms, including the characteristics of each individual. Digital cameras were used to capture photographs to aid individual identification. The cross-verification with adjacent sampling units, sub-zones, zones, and regions helped ensure accuracy and remove the duplication,” the report noted. To improve transparency and credibility, experts from various fields, members of the State board for wildlife, and individuals experienced in group dynamics and pride behaviour were invited as independent observers. The estimation exercise involved 3,254 people, the report noted.
Can the lion population expand unabated?
The growth in lion numbers, while a positive sign as far as conservation goes, has its own challenges. For one, the rise in lion presence in areas outside the core zone — a phenomenon observed since over a decade and a half now — is a worry. This means lions are present in places with human settlements, which may lead to more animal-human conflicts causing economic losses for those living in close proximity to the lions. It has been established over decades that lions are growing in Gujarat not only due to conservation efforts by the Gujarat government, such as ensuring adequate prey like wild boars, but also the “tolerance” exhibited by resident communities like the pastoral Maldharis towards the animals. Over the years, they have shown that they are accustomed to lions preying on their cattle, though such losses are compensated for by the government. However, experts such as Y.V. Jhala, former Dean, Wildlife Institute of India, have said that while Gujarat can host up to 2,000 lions, it is critical that they live in pristine regions, with preferably no human presence.
What are future plans for lion conservation?
Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved a ‘Project Lion’ conservation programme worth ₹2,927 crore. The first step under this is to develop the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary within Gujarat which already hosts a substantial population of 17 lions. Other plans include involving communities in tourism and creating greater incentives for conservation.
Published – May 25, 2025 01:51 am IST