The 16th Population Estimation of Asiatic Lions is set to take place in May 2025 in Gujarat. The decision was announced during 7th National Wildlife Board (NWLB) meeting held in Sasan, Gujarat, on World Wildlife Day. This census is expected to be most intensive yet, owing to significant rise in lion population and its expanding distribution.
Key Highlights of 16th Asiatic Lion Census 2025
Lion Population Growth:
- The Asiatic lion population has doubled since 2001.
- As per the 2020 estimation, the population stood at 674 lions, marking an increase of 151 lions since the 2015 census.
Expanded Habitat:
- The lion’s distribution has expanded from 22,000 sq. km (2015) to 30,000 sq. km (2020) across 53 talukas in nine districts of Gujarat.
Intensive Census Exercise:
- Due to frequent sightings of lions in both forested and urban areas, this census will employ an extensive tracking system using CCTV cameras, high-tech monitoring centers, and satellite tracking.
Public Involvement:
- Since lions have moved into non-forest areas, village sarpanches, school teachers, NGOs, and environmentalists will assist in tracking efforts.
Technologies Used in Lion Census
The 16th Census will incorporate advanced tracking and data collection methods, including:
- GIS (Geographic Information System) & GPS Mapping
- Camera Traps & Wireless Monitoring
- Range Finders & Digital Imaging
- Satellite Tracking & AI-based Analysis
Government Initiatives for Lion Conservation
Project Lion:
- Launched in 2020 to enhance habitat protection, improve monitoring, and use modern tracking technology (radio collars, camera traps, and GPS-based monitoring).
- The Central Government has approved ₹2,900 crore for the project, ensuring long-term conservation efforts.
Barda Wildlife Sanctuary as a “Second Home”:
- Asiatic lions have naturally dispersed into Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, leading to increased conservation efforts such as prey augmentation and habitat improvement.
Greater Gir Concept:
- Aims to create new habitats beyond Gir National Park and Sanctuary to accommodate the growing lion population. Gir National Park is home to world’s last Asiatic lion population (estimated at 600 lions).
International Big Cats Alliance (2023):
- A global initiative launched to protect big cats, including Asiatic lions.
About Asiatic Lions
Habitat: The Gir Forest of Gujarat is the only natural habitat of Asiatic lions.
Conservation Status:
- IUCN: Vulnerable
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I and IV
- CITES: Appendix I
Social Behavior:
- Lions live in prides (groups).
- Males patrol territories and mark them with scent, while females and their sisters form long-term bonds.
- Females remain in the pride for life, while males leave at maturity.
Reproduction & Hunting:
- No fixed breeding season, with a gestation period of 100–119 days.
- Hunts mainly at night for easier prey capture.
- Rest for nearly 20 hours a day.
Background & Conservation Milestones
Pre-1900s- Decline & Recovery:
- Asiatic lions were on the verge of extinction, with fewer than 50 individuals remaining in the late 1890s, confined primarily to the Gir Forest.
- They were later included in the list of 21 critically endangered species for conservation by the union government.
Previous Census: (2020 Census: Delayed Due to COVID-19):
- The detailed census in 2015 employed advanced tools such as GIS, GPS, wireless technologies, camera traps, and digital cameras.
- The 16th census was originally planned for 2020 but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- An internal monthly estimation recorded 674 lions at that time.
National Wildlife Board (NWLB):
The NWLB, chaired ex-officio by the Prime Minister and with the Union Environment, Forests and Climate Change Minister as vice-chairperson, comprises 47 members including top military officials, state representatives, NGO members, chief wildlife wardens, and state secretaries.