29 July : The population of Lion is not decreasing in the country. On the contrary, it has increased. Lions are found in Gir forests of Gujarat. As per the estimation carried out during 2001 and 2005, the population of Lions in Gir forests were 327 and 359+ 10 respectively.
Central Government has not launched any dedicated Project on Lion. However, under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme-‘Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats’ (erstwhile Scheme of ‘Assistance for Development of National Parks and Sanctuaries’), the Ministry provides financial and technical assistance to the State Government of Gujarat for various activities aimed at conservation of Lion and its habitats. Details of fund released to the Protected Areas of Gujarat, that harbour Lions, under the Scheme during the last three years are as under: