“Lions and lionesses in Gir”; PM Modi safari at Gir to mark Wildlife Day

Gandhi Nagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, went on a lion safari at Gir Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat’s Junagadh district on Monday to mark the World Wildlife Day.

In a tweet, the Prime Minister said “This morning, on #WorldWildlifeDay, I went on a Safari in Gir, which, as we all know, is home to the majestic Asiatic Lion. Coming to Gir also brings back many memories of the work we collectively did when I was serving as Gujarat CM.

” In the last many years, collective efforts have ensured that the population of Asiatic Lions is rising steadily. Equally commendable is the role of tribal communities and women from surrounding areas in preserving the habitat of the Asiatic Lion. I urge you all to come and visit Gir in the future.”

“Lions and lionesses in Gir! Tried my hand at some photography this morning.” he said.

At Sasan Gir, the headquarters of the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, the prime minister will also chair the seventh meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL).

The NBWL has 47 members, including the Chief of Army Staff, members from different states, representatives from NGOs working in this field, chief wildlife wardens and secretaries from various states.

Gir National Park, also known as Sasan-Gir, is a protected area located in the state of Gujarat, India. It is one of the most famous and iconic national parks in India for the Asiatic Lions in the world. 

In 1900 the estimated population of Asiatic Lions was 100. As per the census taken in 2020 the numbers stand at 674 consisting of 274 males, 260 females and 137 cubs. This represents a remarkable improvement compared to the previous century.

Despite the Gir Forest being protected, the Asiatic Lion population is still under threat from illegal poaching and retaliation from farmers for attack on livestock. 

The National Park  home to Leopards, hyenas, jackals, wolves, and various species of deer, including chinkara and sambar. It is habitat to over 300 species of birds, including vultures, eagles, and storks.