Rapur, August 10, 2026: The Asiatic Lion population in India has steadily increased from 523 in 2015 to 891 in 2025, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav said today.
On World Lion Day 2026, Union Minister Yadav celebrated India’s remarkable journey in lion conservation and reaffirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to protecting wildlife and biodiversity.
In a post on social media, the Minister noted that the Asiatic Lion population has steadily increased from 523 in 2015 to 891 in 2025. He attributed this achievement to the dedication of forest officials, conservationists, local communities and all those working tirelessly to protect the magnificent species.
Yadav stated that India’s success in conserving the Asiatic Lion is a proud testament to the country’s commitment to wildlife and biodiversity. He reaffirmed the resolve to safeguard India’s natural heritage and ensure that the roar of the Asiatic Lion continues to resonate for generations to come.
On the occasion, in a social media post, Union MoS (EFCC) 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 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.
