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Key Points

India's Asiatic lion population has surged to 891, marking a 32% increase since 2020. New satellite populations have been recorded in Barda and Jetpur, expanding their habitat. While most regions show growth, Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary saw a slight decline. Union Minister Bhupender Yadav praised conservation efforts on World Lion Day.

Key Points: Asiatic Lion Population Jumps 32% to 891 in Five Years

  • Asiatic lion population grows 32% since 2020
  • New satellite populations found in Barda and Jetpur
  • Amreli district hosts highest lion numbers
  • Some regions like Girnar show minor declines
2 min read

Asiatic lion numbers surge 32 per cent in five years, touch 891: Report

India's Asiatic lion count surges to 891, marking a 32% rise since 2020, with new satellite populations expanding their habitat.

"India draws immense pride from being home to the Asiatic lion... From 523 lions in 2015 to 891 in 2025, we have registered a phenomenal success. – Bhupender Yadav"

New Delhi, August 10

India's Asiatic lion population has recorded a significant jump, rising from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025, an increase of 32.2 per cent, according to the 16th Lion Population Estimation report released on Sunday.

The number of adult females has grown from 260 to 330 (26.9 per cent), bolstering the species' reproductive capacity.

The latest count includes new satellite populations in Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Jetpur and adjoining areas, and Babra-Jasdan and adjoining areas, taking the total number of lions in satellite populations to 497 across nine locations. For the first time, 22 lions have been recorded in corridor areas.

Marking the occasion, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav posted on X, "India draws immense pride from being home to the Asiatic lion. Over the last few years, our lion population has grown steadily. From 523 lions in 2015 to 891 lions in 2025, we have registered a phenomenal success. On World Lion Day, let us resolve to protect our lions and help them thrive. My greetings to all those passionate about lion conservation."

Over the past decade, the population has surged by 70.36 percent from 523 in 2015 to 891 in 2025, while the area of distribution has expanded by 59.09 per cent.

Amreli district currently holds the highest number of lions in the landscape, with 82 adult males, 117 adult females, and 79 cubs.

Area-wise, the sharpest growth was seen in Mitiyala Wildlife Sanctuary and adjoining areas (100 per cent), followed by Bhavnagar Mainland (84 per cent) and the South Eastern Coast (40 per cent).

Some regions, however, recorded declines: Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary (-4%) and Bhavnagar Coast (-12%).

World Lion Day, celebrated annually on August 10, aims to raise awareness about the conservation and protection of lions worldwide. In Gujarat, the Asiatic lion is a unique ecological and cultural treasure, found only in the Saurashtra region. The Ministry and the state's consistent efforts under Project Lion and the leadership of the Gujarat government have made significant strides in ensuring the survival and growth of this iconic species.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While the growth is impressive, we must ensure the habitat expansion keeps pace with population growth. The declines in Girnar and Bhavnagar Coast show we can't be complacent. More protected corridors needed!
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Priya S
Amazing to see our lions thriving! 🙌 But I worry about human-animal conflicts increasing as they expand into new areas. The government should start awareness programs in these satellite locations immediately.
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Arjun K
From 523 to 891 in 10 years - what an achievement! This shows what proper wildlife management can do. Now we should consider translocating some lions to other states to reduce risk of disease wiping them all out.
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Michael C
As a wildlife photographer who's visited Gir many times, I've seen firsthand how local communities have embraced lion conservation. Their participation is key to this success story. More countries should learn from India's model.
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Kavya N
The increase in female lions is most encouraging! But why no mention of poaching threats? We must remain vigilant. Also, tourism needs better regulation - too many safari vehicles disturb the animals.
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Vikram M
Great news on World Lion Day! 🎉 But let's not forget the Maldhari community's role in this - their traditional coexistence with lions is remarkable. The government should document and preserve

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