PM Modi Visits Gir National Park on World Wildlife Day: Strengthening India's Commitment to Asiatic Lion Conservation -

On World Wildlife Day 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Gir National Park in Gujarat, reinforcing India’s dedication to preserving its rich biodiversity. The visit highlighted the government’s proactive efforts in wildlife conservation, with a special focus on the Asiatic lion—a species that finds its only natural habitat in Gir.

PM Modi’s Tour of Gir National Park

During his visit, PM Modi engaged in discussions on wildlife protection, emphasizing the need for sustainable conservation efforts. His itinerary included visits to rescue centers and interactions with wildlife experts, underlining the critical role of rescue and rehabilitation in preserving endangered species.

One of the key takeaways from his visit was India’s increasing investment in Project Lion, a landmark initiative aimed at safeguarding the Asiatic lion population. With an allocation of over ₹2,900 crore, the project focuses on habitat restoration, disease prevention, eco-tourism, and community participation in conservation.

Project Lion: A Game-Changer for Asiatic Lion Conservation

The Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) is classified as Endangered by the IUCN Red List, with Gir National Park serving as the last bastion for these majestic big cats. Recognizing the need for habitat expansion and genetic diversity, the government has introduced Project Lion, a multi-pronged initiative designed to address key conservation challenges.

Key Objectives of Project Lion:

Habitat Expansion: Ensuring sufficient space for the lion population to thrive.
Disease Control Measures: Preventing outbreaks like the deadly Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), which has previously threatened the species.
Community Involvement: Encouraging local communities to participate in conservation while benefiting from eco-tourism.
Rescue and Rehabilitation: Strengthening rescue operations for injured or distressed lions.
Research and Monitoring: Using technology-driven approaches like GPS tracking and AI-based surveillance to monitor lion movements.

India’s Leading Role in Wildlife Conservation

India has made remarkable strides in wildlife conservation, with successful initiatives such as Project Tiger, Project Elephant, and Project Snow Leopard. Project Lion joins this league of visionary programs, ensuring that the Asiatic lion continues to thrive in its natural habitat.

PM Modi’s visit to Gir National Park on World Wildlife Day serves as a strong statement of India’s commitment to biodiversity conservation. By integrating scientific research, local engagement, and significant financial investment, the country is paving the way for a sustainable future for its wildlife.

Final Thoughts

As India moves forward with Project Lion, the focus remains on preserving ecosystems, promoting responsible eco-tourism, and ensuring the safety of endangered species. World Wildlife Day 2025 has reinforced the importance of conservation efforts, with PM Modi’s visit acting as a catalyst for renewed global attention on India’s rich wildlife heritage.

With continuous efforts, Gir National Park will remain a symbol of successful conservation, ensuring that the roar of the Asiatic lion echoes for generations to come.