New Delhi, Aug 10 — On World Lion Day 2026, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav praised forest officials and local communities for the increase in the Asiatic Lion population from 523 in 2015 to 891 in 2025, an official said on Monday.
In a post on social media, the Minister attributed the achievement to the dedication of forest officials, conservationists, local communities and all those working tirelessly to protect the magnificent species.
Yadav said that India’s success in conserving the Asiatic Lion is a proud testament to the country’s commitment to wildlife and biodiversity.
His social media post said, “On World Lion Day, we celebrate India’s remarkable journey in lion conservation. India’s success in conserving the Asiatic Lion is a proud testament to our unwavering commitment to wildlife and biodiversity.”
“From protecting critical habitats to strengthening conservation efforts, India has demonstrated that development and nature conservation can move forward together,” he said.
“As we mark World Lion Day, let us reaffirm our resolve to safeguard our natural heritage and ensure that the roar of the Asiatic Lion continues to resonate for generations to come,” he said.
On the occasion, in a social media post, Union Minister of State Kirti Vardhan Singh stated that by protecting critical habitats, strengthening conservation programmes and fostering coexistence, India has shown the world that development and nature can thrive together.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announced 'Project Lion' on 15th August, 2020, to ensure long-term conservation of the big cat. Currently, the lion range has expanded from around 30,000 sq. km. in 2020 to nearly 35,000 sq. km.
The project adopts a landscape-level, holistic approach to biodiversity conservation, emphasising habitat enhancement, disease monitoring and veterinary support, scientific population tracking, technology-aided interventions, biodiversity protection, benefit sharing and community involvement.