Why in NEWS?
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change celebrated World Lion Day 2025 at Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat, highlighting efforts to conserve the Asiatic lion population, which has shown significant recovery in recent years.
Key Terms and Concepts
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica) | A smaller subspecies of lion found mainly in India, characterized by a unique belly skin fold and less prominent mane. |
| Project Lion | A 10-year conservation program launched in 2020 to protect and expand Asiatic lion habitats. |
| International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA) | A global coalition of 97 countries dedicated to the conservation of big cats including lions. |
| Greater Gir Concept | An initiative to expand Asiatic lion habitat beyond Gir National Park to adjoining sanctuaries. |
| IUCN Red List | International Union for Conservation of Nature’s list classifying species’ conservation status. |
| Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 | Indian law providing legal protection to wildlife species, including Asiatic lions (Schedule I). |
News Details
- World Lion Day: Observed on August 10 annually, initiated by Big Cat Rescue in 2013 to raise awareness about lion conservation.
- Asiatic Lion Features: Slightly smaller than African lions, with a longitudinal belly fold and a less dense mane that keeps ears visible.
- Habitat: Grasslands, savannas, scrublands, and woodlands primarily in Gir Forest and Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in India.
- Population Growth: The 16th Lion Census (2025) reports an increase from 523 lions in 2015 to 891 in 2025.
- Ecological Role: As apex predators, lions regulate herbivore populations, maintaining ecosystem balance and health.
- Cultural Significance: The lion is a national emblem symbolizing strength and appears on Indian currency.
- Conservation Status: Listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, included in Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, and in Appendix I of CITES.
- Major Conservation Efforts:
- Project Lion aims at habitat improvement, population monitoring, and reducing human-lion conflicts.
- IBCA promotes international cooperation for big cat protection.
- Greater Gir Concept expands protected areas for sustainable lion populations.
- Advanced Technologies: Use of GPS, GIS, automated sensors for real-time monitoring and better conservation management.
In a nutshell
World Lion Day 2025 highlights India’s success and ongoing efforts in conserving Asiatic lions through national projects like Project Lion and global cooperation via IBCA. The population growth from 523 to 891 lions over a decade showcases effective habitat protection and monitoring, with advanced tech playing a key role.
Prelims Questions
- What is the unique physical feature of Asiatic lions distinguishing them from African lions?
a) Larger mane
b) Longitudinal skin fold on belly
c) Smaller ears
d) Darker fur - Which of the following is NOT part of the Greater Gir Concept?
a) Gir National Park
b) Girnar Sanctuary
c) Pania Sanctuary
d) Kaziranga National Park - Project Lion, launched in 2020, is implemented primarily by which state government?
a) Madhya Pradesh
b) Maharashtra
c) Gujarat
d) Rajasthan
Prelims Answers
| Q.No | Answer | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | b | Asiatic lions have a unique longitudinal fold of skin along their belly, unlike African lions. |
| 2 | d | Kaziranga National Park is not part of the Greater Gir Concept; it is a tiger reserve in Assam. |
| 3 | c | Project Lion is implemented by the Gujarat State Government focusing on Asiatic lion conservation. |
