During his Mann Ki Baat address on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared an uplifting update on India’s wildlife conservation efforts, revealing a notable increase in the population of Asiatic lions in Gujarat’s Gir Forest.
The announcement comes as a testament to sustained conservation work, local involvement, and modernised tracking methods.
Lion Numbers On The Rise
“In the last five years alone, the number of lions in Gir has grown from 674 to 891,” Mr Modi revealed, calling the latest lion census figures “very encouraging”.
This 32 per cent increase demonstrates the positive impact of concerted efforts from forest officials, local communities, and conservation agencies alike.
Behind The Scenes: A Challenging Census
Mr Modi shed light on the scale and complexity of the census, describing it as a “very challenging” exercise.
“Many people may not realise what goes into such a count. The Lion Census was conducted across 11 districts, covering a vast area of 35,000 square kilometres,” he explained.
Teams worked round the clock, conducting thorough verification and cross-verification, which enabled authorities to complete the count with a high degree of accuracy.
Community Commitment: A Key To Success
The Prime Minister praised the community-led model of conservation in Gujarat, emphasising the power of public participation.
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“A few decades ago, the situation in Gir was dire. But the local population took ownership and brought about a remarkable transformation,” he said. “This rise in lion numbers proves that when society feels responsible, extraordinary results follow.”
Role Of Policy, Technology, and Inclusion
Mr Modi also credited policy reforms, technological advancements, and inclusive governance for the success.
“Gujarat became the first state to appoint women as forest officers on a large scale,” he noted. “In addition to this, officials adopted global best practices and utilised the latest monitoring technologies to protect the lions.”
These reforms, he stressed, must be maintained and replicated elsewhere to ensure long-term success in wildlife conservation.
A Call For Continued Vigilance
Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister urged citizens and officials to remain vigilant and committed to protecting wildlife.
“This is not the time for complacency. We must continue with the same dedication, alertness, and unity to safeguard our forests and the majestic creatures that inhabit them,” he said.
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