The Conservation Journey of the Asiatic Lion and New Habitat Challenges
Environment & Ecology · Thursday, 6 August 2026
A proposal to divert 75 hectares of forest for limestone mining in Jafrabad Taluka has raised concerns over disrupting the Babarkot coastal corridor for Asiatic lions. The species population has grown to 891 in 2025, but 56% now reside outside protected sanctuaries in human-dominated landscapes.
Quick highlights
- Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) population reached 891 in the 16th Lion Census (2025), a 32.2% increase from 2020.
- 56% of lions (507 individuals) live outside protected sanctuaries in human-dominated landscapes.
- Proposed 75-hectare limestone mining in Jafrabad threatens the Babarkot coastal movement corridor.
- Spatial range expanded by 16.6% to over 35,000 sq. km across 9 satellite populations.
- IUCN Status: Upgraded from 'Critically Endangered' to 'Endangered'.
Context
Environmentalists have raised concerns over a proposal to divert 75 hectares of reserved forest for limestone mining in Jafrabad Taluka (Babarkot corridor), which threatens to disconnect satellite lion populations from Gir.
Key Facts
The 16th Lion Census (2025) recorded 891 Asiatic lions, up 32.2% from 2020. Spatial distribution spans 35,000 sq. km across 9 satellite habitats. Over 56% of lions live outside protected areas in agrarian and coastal zones.
Significance
Community-led conservation with local Maldhari pastoralists and historic royal protection by the Nawab of Junagadh rescued the species from near-extinction (~20-50 lions in early 20th century). Project Lion and Barda Wildlife Sanctuary support habitat expansion.
Challenges / Way Forward
Vulnerability to epidemic outbreaks like Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), open farm wells, linear infrastructure, and stalled translocations to Kuno National Park pose risks. Corridors like Babarkot must be declared eco-sensitive zones.
Exam Angle
Relevant for GS Paper III (Biodiversity, Wildlife Conservation, Human-Wildlife Conflict). Frequently tested in Prelims regarding IUCN status, Project Lion, and habitat geographies.
Remember this
- Scientific Name: Panthera leo persica.
- IUCN Red List Status: Endangered.
- 2025 Lion Census Population: 891 individuals (32.2% growth over 2020).
- 56% of total lions reside outside protected forest areas.
- Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat developed as secondary habitat.
- Kuno National Park in MP originally identified as second home.
- Hi-Tech Monitoring Unit established at Sasan-Gir.
Background reading
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