India Shows Global Leadership in Asiatic Lion Conservation Efforts

SASAN GIR, May 14, 2026 — Bhupender Yadav, the Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, inaugurated the ‘Lion’ Species Spotlight Event today at Sasan Gir, Gujarat. The event is part of a series of pre-summit species events leading up to the International Big Cat Alliance Summit 2026.

Before the ceremony, the Minister undertook a safari at Gir National Park to observe the conservation progress firsthand.

The Minister highlighted that India has established itself as a global leader in lion conservation at a time when lion populations are dwindling worldwide.

India’s success in maintaining a thriving base of Asiatic Lions is attributed to a combination of technological interventions and community-led initiatives.

Key technologies deployed include the SIMBA AI for identification, radio collars, camera traps, the e-Gujforest app, GIS mapping, and the Gir Hi-Tech Monitoring Unit.

These technical tools are bolstered by robust community participation focused on public sensitization and the generation of local livelihoods to ensure long-term sustainability for the species.