The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change announced on World Lion Day 2026 that India's Asiatic Lion population has shown significant growth, increasing from 523 lions in 2015 to 891 lions in 2025. Union Environment Minister Shri Bhupender Yadav attributed this conservation success to the dedicated efforts of forest officials, conservationists, and local communities working to protect the species.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced 'Project Lion' on August 15, 2020, to ensure long-term conservation of the big cat. The project has resulted in the expansion of the lion habitat range from approximately 30,000 square kilometers in 2020 to nearly 35,000 square kilometers currently. Project Lion adopts a landscape-level, holistic approach to biodiversity conservation that emphasizes habitat enhancement, disease monitoring and veterinary support, scientific population tracking, technology-aided interventions, biodiversity protection, benefit sharing, and community involvement.
Minister Yadav reaffirmed India's commitment to wildlife and biodiversity conservation, stating that the success in conserving the Asiatic Lion represents a proud testament to this commitment. Union MoS Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh noted that India has demonstrated that development and nature can thrive together through protecting critical habitats, strengthening conservation programs, and fostering coexistence.
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