Project Lion

Project Lion is conservation initiative launched by the Government of India to protect and expand the population of Asiatic lions. The project was approved in 2025 with a budget of ₹2,927.71 crore. This initiative aims to ensure the long-term survival of Asiatic lions, which are currently found only in the Gir Forest of Gujarat.

Context of Project Lion

The Asiatic lion is an endangered species with a population of 674 as per the 2020 census. These lions inhabit 30,000 square kilometres across nine districts in Gujarat. Despite previous conservation efforts, challenges such as habitat loss and human-wildlife conflicts threaten their survival. Project Lion aims to address these issues through a comprehensive approach.

Key Components of Project Lion

The project integrates multiple strategies for effective conservation. It focuses on habitat management, wildlife health monitoring, and community participation. The initiative also includes measures for human-wildlife conflict mitigation. This multifaceted approach aims to provide a secure future for the Asiatic lions.

Community Involvement

Community participation is critical to Project Lion. The project involves local communities in conservation efforts, ensuring they benefit from wildlife preservation. This engagement helps to encourage coexistence between humans and lions, reducing conflicts and promoting sustainable practices.

Wildlife Health Monitoring

To monitor the health of the lion population, a National Referral Center for Wildlife Health has been established. This facility is located in New Pipaliya and is essential for timely medical care and research. A high-tech monitoring centre and a veterinary hospital have also been set up in Sasan, enhancing wildlife health management.

Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation

Addressing human-wildlife conflict is a priority in Project Lion. The project has introduced 11,000 machans, which are elevated platforms that help farmers protect their crops from lions. Additionally, parapet walls around open wells have been constructed to prevent accidental falls of wildlife, ensuring safety for both lions and local communities.

Employment and Training Initiatives

To strengthen conservation efforts, 237 beat guards were recruited in 2024. This team includes both men and women who patrol protected areas and monitor lion habitats. Their training is crucial for effective wildlife protection and conflict resolution.

Eco-Tourism Development

Project Lion also promotes eco-tourism, which can generate revenue for local communities while supporting conservation. By developing sustainable tourism practices, the project aims to create an economic incentive for preserving the lion population and their habitats.

Significance of Project Lion

The Asiatic lion is not only a symbol of India’s biodiversity but also holds cultural significance. Project Lion represents a proactive approach to conservation. It aims to balance ecological preservation with sustainable development. The project serves as a model for future wildlife conservation efforts.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of human-wildlife conflict on biodiversity conservation efforts in India.
2. What are the key features of sustainable development? Explain how they can be integrated into wildlife conservation projects.
3. What is the role of community participation in wildlife conservation? Discuss with suitable examples.
4. Explain the significance of the Asiatic lion in India’s cultural heritage. How does its conservation reflect broader environmental issues?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of human-wildlife conflict on biodiversity conservation efforts in India.

1. Human-wildlife conflict leads to loss of life and property, creating animosity towards wildlife.
2. It can result in retaliatory killings of endangered species, hindering conservation efforts.
3. Conflict disrupts local ecosystems and can lead to habitat destruction as communities seek to protect their livelihoods.
4. Effective mitigation strategies, like Project Lion’s machans and parapet walls, are essential for reducing conflicts.
5. Community education and involvement are crucial to encouraging coexistence and promoting biodiversity conservation.

2. What are the key features of sustainable development? Explain how they can be integrated into wildlife conservation projects.

1. Sustainable development aims to meet current needs without compromising future generations.
2. Key features include ecological balance, economic viability, and social equity.
3. Wildlife conservation projects can incorporate sustainable practices by promoting eco-tourism and community engagement.
4. Integrating habitat management with local livelihoods ensures that communities benefit from conservation efforts.
5. Ongoing monitoring and research help adapt strategies for long-term sustainability.

3. What is the role of community participation in wildlife conservation? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. Community participation encourages local ownership and responsibility towards wildlife conservation.
2. In Project Lion, local communities are involved in monitoring and protecting lion habitats.
3. Engagement through sustainable practices, like eco-tourism, provides economic incentives for conservation.
4. Successful examples include community-led anti-poaching initiatives that reduce threats to wildlife.
5. Empowering communities enhances conflict resolution and promotes coexistence with wildlife.

4. Explain the significance of the Asiatic lion in India’s cultural heritage. How does its conservation reflect broader environmental issues?

1. The Asiatic lion symbolizes strength and resilience, deeply rooted in Indian culture and history.
2. As a flagship species, its conservation marks the importance of biodiversity in ecological balance.
3. Efforts to protect the lion address broader issues like habitat loss, climate change, and human encroachment.
4. Conserving the Asiatic lion promotes awareness of environmental challenges and the need for sustainable practices.
5. The lion’s survival reflects India’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage amidst modern development pressures.