India has set an example in lion conservation

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Species: Panthera leo persica – subspecies of the lion, genetically distinct from African lions.
Distribution: Once spread across Southwest Asia to eastern India; now confined to Gujarat (Gir National Park & surrounding areas).
Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Endangered.
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I (highest protection).
Ecological Role: Apex predator, keystone species maintaining prey population balance in semi-arid ecosystems.
Cultural Importance: Symbol of strength in Indian mythology, national emblem inspiration.

Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology)

Population:
- 2020 Census: 674 individuals.
- 2025 Census: 891 individuals (+32% growth in 5 years).
Historical Context:
- 1880s: Fewer than 20 lions survived in Gir due to hunting.
- Strict protection since 20th century led to steady recovery.
Habitat Expansion: Gir → Girnar, Girnar–Barda corridor, Mitiyala, and now Barda Wildlife Sanctuary.

Strict Legal Protection: Wildlife (Protection) Act enforcement, anti-poaching patrols.
Habitat Management: Grassland restoration, prey base improvement.
Community Involvement:
- Maldhari pastoralists allowed to live in Gir; model of coexistence with lions.
- Compensation for livestock depredation reduces retaliation killings.
Political Will: PM’s directive (2024) to boost lion population and develop Barda as new habitat fulfilled.

Genetic Bottleneck: Single population increases vulnerability to disease outbreaks (e.g., Canine Distemper Virus in 2018).
Habitat Saturation: Growing numbers risk human-lion conflict outside protected areas.
Climate Change Impacts: Heavy rains, cyclones in Saurashtra affecting prey base and habitat.
Infrastructure Development: Road, rail, and mining projects fragment corridors.

Habitat Diversification: Development of Barda Wildlife Sanctuary as alternative habitat.
Global Alliances:
- International Big Cat Alliance – covers 7 big cat species across 97 countries.
- Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) – addresses climate-induced threats.
- International Solar Alliance – promotes renewable energy in conservation landscapes.
Flagship Species Projects: Project Lion, Project Tiger, Project Elephant, Project Dolphin, Project Great Indian Bustard.

Tigers: 58 tiger reserves (up from 47), hosting ~70% of global tiger population.
Snow Leopards: Population ~714 in India; conservation ongoing.
Cheetahs: African cheetah reintroduction in Kuno NP (Madhya Pradesh).
Global Species: Jaguars & pumas in Latin America; emphasis on international cooperation for all big cat species.

Wildlife Corridors: National Wildlife Action Plan (2017–2031) focuses on landscape-level conservation.
Species Recovery Programmes: Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Development of Wildlife Habitats funds Project Lion.
Community-Based Models: Eco-development projects (₹189 crore launched) – safari park, interpretation centre, etc., linking livelihoods to conservation.