Gujarat is Now Home to 891 Asiatic Lions

Gujarat is now home to 891 Asiatic Lions (Panthera leo persica).

The population of these magnificent creatures in the state has risen from 674 to 891, with an overall growth of 217 individuals, in just 5 years.

The increase in the population of Asiatic Lions is significant, as Gujarat is the only region in the world where we can find these free-roaming creatures in the wild. 

Gujarat Forest Department conducted the 16th Lion Population Estimation in May 2025, to assess the current population status, trend and distribution of the Asiatic lion.

The extensive exercise involved 3254 trained human resources under the team of forest officials. 

According to the latest census using the Direct Beat Verification Method, covering 35,000 sq. km across 11 districts, the population of Asiatic lions has risen by 32% since 2020 and 70% in the last decade (523 in 2015 vs 891 in 2025).

Adult females increased from 260 individuals to 330 (26.92%), reinforcing the population’s reproductive capacity.

Verifications of observations and data collected at the field level, 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 to enhance transparency and credibility. 

The increase in lion population in India can also be attributed to the Project Lion launched by the Prime Minister of India in August 2020. Aimed at the conservation of the Asiatic lion, the project seeks to ensure the long-term survival and genetic health of this endangered species.

Many notable steps have been taken under Project Lion, including leveraging tools like GPS tracking, drones and camera traps to monitor lions’ movements and behaviour in real time. 

As we wrote earlier on the use of technology in wildlife conservation enables better monitoring, protection, and management of species and habitats.

Earlier, Asiatic lions in India were confined exclusively in the Gir Forest of Gujarat. The Project Lion plans to identify and develop new habitats across Gujarat and possibly in other states to reduce the risk of having the entire lion population concentrated in one area (Gir). 

Apart from Gir National Park, the current population estimate of Asiatic Lions is now also seen in Jetpur, adjoining areas of Babra-Jasdan, and Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, which is emerging as their second home. 

India also plans a reintroduction of Asiatic Lions to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh to reduce pressure on Gir, secure a backup population and build ecological resilience. 

Further, engaging local communities in conservation efforts and promoting eco-tourism to create sustainable livelihoods is also being worked on.

Through Project Lion, India aims to secure the future of this iconic species.