On March 3, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Sasan Gir, Gujarat, to commemorate World Wildlife Day, highlighting the state's commitment to the conservation of Asiatic lions and their habitat. This year's theme, "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet," underscored the importance of sustainable funding and active community involvement in wildlife conservation efforts.
During his visit, PM Modi inaugurated a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital intended to provide advanced medical care for Asiatic lions. Following this, he returned to Singh Sadan to chair a meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), where various national wildlife conservation issues were discussed. Emphasizing the need for inclusion, the Prime Minister also engaged with the women forest staff at Sasan, promoting gender inclusivity within wildlife conservation efforts.
Gujarat, home to approximately 30,000 square kilometers of territory inhabited by the last wild population of Asiatic lions, has implemented numerous initiatives aimed at protecting these magnificent creatures. The state government recently established the National Referral Centre for Wildlife, spanning over 20.24 hectares, situated at New Pipalya, Junagadh. This center, along with the new high-tech wildlife monitoring center, plays a pivotal role by allowing for enhanced tracking and protection of the lions.
Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi praised the collaborative efforts between the Gujarat Police and Forest Department. He highlighted the recruitment of 237 beat guards, including 162 men and 75 women, to enforce surveillance and protect lion populations throughout the Gir Protected Area. These actions are integral to the broader strategy not only to safeguard Asiatic lions but also to protect other endangered species within the region.
Local community engagement has taken center stage, with the launch of the 'Gir Samvad Setu' initiative. This initiative aims to address and resolve community concerns, allowing locals to participate actively. So far, over 300 programs have been organized, directly contributing to enhancing conservation by fostering collaboration between officials and residents.
The establishment of nine breeding centers for herbivorous species has fortified the ecological balance within Gir, which is home to not only the lions but also diverse wildlife. The comprehensive approach blends scientific, ecological, and community-driven strategies to support the region's biodiversity.
Reflecting on past conservation efforts, Prime Minister Modi, during his erstwhile role as Chief Minister of Gujarat, played a significant role starting from 2007. His first-hand visit to Gir at the time set the stage for transformative initiatives dedicated to holistic development aimed at both lions and local communities. Modi's dedication to eco-tourism brought attention to the area's rich biodiversity, injecting vitality and visibility to the region.
The vibrant growth of eco-tourism is evident, with around 33,15,637 tourists visiting the Gir protected area over the past five years. This influx not only promotes wildlife conservation but also stimulates economic opportunities for thousands of local residents. Local artisans and farmers, from providers of traditional handicrafts to agricultural products, benefit as visitors seek authentic experiences during their explorations of Gir.
To effectively manage both conservation and tourism pressures, Ambardi Safari Park was introduced in 2017, and the Gir Online Permit Booking System has streamlined the safari experience for visitors. The interplay of eco-tourism and conservation has collectively supported livelihoods, with about 1,000 families directly participating and another 15,400 benefitting indirectly around Gir.
With enhancements to conservation strategies and eco-tourism promoting sustainable development, the investment made by Gujarat reflects long-term stewardship for wildlife. PM Modi's commitment not only continues to position Gir and its wildlife at the forefront of conservation dialogues but also presents new opportunities for local communities to thrive alongside the majestic lions.