World Lion Day is being observed today across the globe. Gujarat is marking a major milestone in the conservation of the majestic Asiatic lion. The Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, near Porbandar, has emerged as a beacon of ecological restoration and community-driven progress. As Gujarat’s Lion Census of 2025 records a historic 891 lions statewide, Barda leads the way in expanding habitats beyond Gir.
Akashvani correspondent reports that once a secondary habitat, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary now flourishes with 17 lions and 25 leopards, reflecting years of ecological restoration and scientific management. The Forest Department’s use of radio collars and real-time tracking technology has made lion conservation more effective than ever before. Community participation, especially by local Maldhari pastoralists, has made conservation truly inclusive and citizen-centric.
Visitor amenities such as parking, lounges, and sanitation facilities has enhanced comfort and accessibility, and encouraged eco-tourism growth in the region. With 891 lions now in Gujarat and over half outside Gir, Project Lion’s habitat expansion has set new benchmarks for sustainable wildlife management. Today, the sanctuary is an example of India’s vision of balanced development-“Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi”-blending progress with the preservation of precious natural heritage.
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