Why in News?
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said on World Lion Day 2026 that the population of Asiatic lions in India increased from 523 in 2015 to 891 in 2025.
About Asiatic Lion
- The Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) is found mainly in Gujarat in the wild.
- The Gir landscape is its main habitat.
- The Project Lion was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15, 2020 to ensure long-term conservation of the big cat.
- It focuses on habitat improvement, disease monitoring, veterinary care and scientific monitoring of the lion population.
