The conservation of the Asiatic lion, a symbol of strength, majesty, and wilderness, stands as a testament to humanity’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and safeguarding our planet’s most iconic species. With its historical range once spanning across Asia, the Asiatic lion now finds its last refuge in the Gir Forest of Gujarat, India. Threatened by habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching, the survival of this magnificent creature hangs in the balance. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Project Lion emerges as a beacon of hope, a comprehensive conservation initiative aimed at securing the future of the Asiatic lion. Through collaborative efforts in habitat protection, community engagement, and scientific research, Project Lion embodies a concerted endeavor to ensure the survival and flourishing of this charismatic apex predator for generations to come.
ASIATIC LION
- Asiatic lions exhibit a slightly smaller size. Males, in particular, display a more modest mane growth, situated predominantly at the top of the head, ensuring that their ears remain visible.
- One distinctive morphological feature unique to Asiatic lions, rarely observed in African lions, is a longitudinal fold of skin running along their belly.
- Legally protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, Asiatic lions are listed under Schedule 1.
- They are also classified under CITES Appendix I, highlighting the need for stringent conservation measures.
- The IUCN Red List designates them as an endangered species, emphasizing the urgency of conservation efforts.
- Historically, Asiatic lions were distributed across regions such as West Bengal in the east and Rewa in Madhya Pradesh, central India. However, the current habitat for Asiatic lions is exclusively the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary.
ASIATIC LION CONSERVATION PROJECT
- The Union Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has initiated the “Asiatic Lion Conservation Project,” a dedicated effort aimed at safeguarding the Asiatic Lion.
- Approved for the fiscal years spanning 2018 to 2021, this conservation endeavor focuses on the Asiatic Lion, which is native to the Gir landscape in Gujarat and is recognized as one of the 21 critically endangered species prioritized by the Ministry for comprehensive recovery initiatives.
- The project adopts a holistic approach, emphasizing scientific management practices and community engagement.
- Collaboration with various multi-sectoral agencies is integral to address aspects such as disease control and veterinary care, contributing to the overall conservation of the Asiatic lion.
- Notably, the project embraces a “Species Conservation over a large landscape” strategy, emphasizing the significance of preserving the Asiatic lion within its expansive habitat.
PROJECT LION
- Project Lion is a conservation initiative aimed at protecting the Asiatic Lion in Gujarat, particularly in the Gir landscape, which is the last remaining habitat for these lions.
- The project focuses on landscape ecology-based conservation, integrating both conservation and eco-development strategies.
KEY OBJECTIVES OF PROJECT LION
Secure and Restore Lion Habitats:
- The project aims to secure and restore the habitats of Asiatic lions to effectively manage their growing population.
- Conservation efforts may include habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and measures to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.
Livelihood Generation and Community Participation:
- The project seeks to scale up livelihood generation activities for local communities living in the lion landscape.
- The active participation of local communities is crucial for the success of the project, ensuring that conservation efforts benefit both wildlife and people.
Global Hub for Big Cat Disease Diagnostics and Treatment:
- Project Lion aims to establish itself as a global hub for knowledge on big cat disease diagnostics and treatment.
- This involves research and development in the field of veterinary science, with a focus on understanding and treating diseases affecting Asiatic lions.
Inclusive Biodiversity Conservation:
- The project emphasizes inclusive biodiversity conservation through the Project Lion initiative.
- Inclusivity implies involving various stakeholders, such as local communities, conservation organizations, and researchers, in the conservation efforts to create a comprehensive and sustainable approach.
DISTRIBUTION
- The Asiatic lions are currently distributed across nine districts in Gujarat, namely Junagadh, Gir Somnath, Amreli, Bhavnagar, Botad, Porbandar, Jamnagar, Rajkot, and Surendranagar.
- This region, covering around 30,000 square kilometers, is referred to as the Asiatic Lion Landscape.
- Recently, the Project Lion document titled “Lion @ 47: Vision for Amrutkal” has been launched by the Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- Gujarat’s Barda Wildlife Sanctuary: It has been identified as a potential second home for Asiatic lions.
- It is located near Porbandar which is 100 kilometres from the Gir National Park.
FAQs – CONSERVATION OF ASIATIC LION & PROJECT LION
1-What distinguishes Asiatic lions from African lions?
A: Asiatic lions are slightly smaller, with males having a less prominent mane. A unique feature is the longitudinal fold of skin along their belly, rarely seen in African lions.
2-How are Asiatic lions legally protected?
A: Asiatic lions are protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, listed under Schedule 1. They are also classified under CITES Appendix I and are designated as endangered by the IUCN Red List.
3-Where is the current habitat of Asiatic lions?
A: The exclusive habitat for Asiatic lions is the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat, India.
4-What is the Asiatic Lion Conservation Project, and when was it initiated?
A: The Asiatic Lion Conservation Project is an initiative by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC). It was approved for the fiscal years 2018-2021, focusing on the critically endangered Asiatic Lion in the Gir landscape.
5-What is the approach of the conservation project?
A: The project adopts a holistic approach, combining scientific management practices and community engagement. It emphasizes comprehensive recovery initiatives for the Asiatic lion.
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