About Asiatic Lion

• Lions are the second largest cat species in the world. It is divided into two subspecies: the African lion (Panthera leo melanochaita) and the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica).
• Habitat: Found only in India, mainly in Gir National Park, Gujarat.
• Threats: Habitat loss, climate change, human-wildlife conflict, inbreeding, diseases, hunting, grazing, mining, infrastructure development, etc.
• Conservation Status: IUCN Red List: Endangered, CITES: Appendix I, WPA,1972: Schedule I

News

• India’s lion population, exclusively concentrated in Gujarat, has risen by 32% between 2020 and 2025, with 891 lions. The number of adult females – a proxy for future growth – rose by 27% to 330 individuals.
• More lions now live outside protected areas, such as Gir National Park, than inside, highlighting both natural dispersal and conservation success, but also increasing the risk of human-wildlife conflict. 
• Experts emphasize the need for new habitats beyond Gujarat, e.g., Kuno National Park, originally proposed for lions (now houses cheetahs).
• World Lion Day was initiated by Big Cat Rescue, the world’s largest accredited sanctuary dedicated to big cats. Celebrated on August 10th
• Lions are nocturnal hunters and sleep or rest for about 20 hours daily.
• Lions do not have a particular breeding season.
• Male lions patrol their territories regularly to protect the pride.

Conservation Measures:

• Project Lion (₹2,900 crore), launched in 2025, aims to improve and expand lion habitats within Gujarat.
• The Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo) is listed as Endangered by the IUCN, protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and included in Appendix I of CITES.