Asiatic lion count up from 674 in '20 to 891 in '25, Pg10

Key Highlights:

• The population of Asiatic lions has increased from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025.
• The increase was confirmed by Union MoS for Environment Kirti Vardhan Singh in response to a written question.
• Asiatic lions have expanded their habitat to include new areas such as river corridors and revenue wastelands.
• A hi-tech monitoring unit was established in Sasan-Gir in 2019 for real-time tracking of lions.

Detailed Insights:

• The expansion of the Asiatic lion population indicates successful conservation efforts in the Gir Forest region.
• The hi-tech monitoring unit utilizes radio telemetry for tracking, enhancing conservation management and reducing human-animal conflict.
• The Asiatic lion, Panthera leo persica, is genetically distinct from its African counterparts and is an endangered species.
• The Gir Forest National Park in Gujarat, India is the last remaining habitat for the Asiatic lion.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Endangered Species: A species at risk of extinction due to factors like habitat loss or poaching.
• Radio Telemetry: A tracking technique using radio signals to monitor animal movement and behavior.