'Lion' Species Spotlight Programme Launched at Sasan Gir in Gujarat Ahead of IBCA Summit 2026
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav launched the 'Lion' Species Spotlight Programme at Sasan Gir, Gujarat, ahead of the IBCA Summit 2026; the Gir lion population rose to about 891 in 2025, up 32% since 2020.
The 'Lion' Species Spotlight Programme was inaugurated at Sasan Gir in Gujarat by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav. It was held as a precursor (a lead-up event) to the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Summit 2026.
The programme highlighted the success of Asiatic lion conservation in the Greater Gir Landscape. The lion population there reached an estimated 891 individuals in 2025, a 32 per cent increase compared with the 2020 census. This shows steady growth in the numbers of the species.
The initiative is aligned with Project Lion, which was launched in 2020 for long-term conservation and habitat restoration of the Asiatic lion. Habitat restoration means improving the natural area where the animals live so that the population can stay healthy.
For exam aspirants, an important static fact is that Gujarat is the only natural home of the Asiatic lion in the world, which makes the state globally important for wildlife conservation and biodiversity. Project Lion, IBCA, and Gir are frequently asked in environment current affairs.
Key Points to Remember
- 'Lion' Species Spotlight Programme inaugurated at Sasan Gir, Gujarat, by Bhupender Yadav
- Held as a precursor to the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Summit 2026
- Asiatic lion population in Greater Gir reached about 891 in 2025 (32% rise since 2020)
- Aligned with Project Lion (launched 2020) for conservation and habitat restoration
- Gujarat is the only natural habitat of the Asiatic lion in the world
Exam Relevance
Relevant for UPSC Prelims (Environment & Ecology, Conservation), SSC CGL (General Awareness), State PCS (Gujarat).
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