In the recent 16th Lion Population Estimation, it was found that the population of Asiatic lions in Gujarat has touched a whopping figure of 891, which is about a 32 per cent hike from the earlier figure of 674 reported in 2020. In addition to the increase in population, the 16th Asiatic Lion Census, held between May 10-13, also assured that the lions' habitat has significantly expanded beyond its customary boundaries.
According to the most recent census, the lion population is growing rapidly, increasing by 32 per cent from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025. However, it proves just as insightful to touch upon the details of the said hike.
Numerous demographics ascertain this increase: there are 196 adult males, 330 females, 140 sub-adults, and 225 cubs. The population's strong reproductive trend is highlighted by the rise in adult females, which went from 260 to 330.
Although traditionally restricted to the Gir National Park and its adjacent sanctuaries, the Asiatic lions have now expanded their territory significantly. Over half of the current population, which amounts to 507 lions, reside outside the Gir forest, spreading across 11 districts in the Saurashtra region, including Amreli, Bhavnagar and Gir Somnath. Notably, Amreli district alone accounts for 399 lions.
Such territorial expansion has enlarged the lions' habitat from 22,000 sq km in 2015 to about 35,000 sq km in 2025, indicating flourishing adaptation patterns to new environments.
The proactive conservation strategies on part of the Gujarat Forest Department have proven pivotal in this population growth. The 2025 census employed the Direct Beat Verification (DBV) method, covering 35,000 square kilometres across 58 talukas in 11 districts. Approximately 3,000 personnel, including forest officials and volunteers, participated in this extensive exercise. Advanced technologies such as GIS mapping, camera traps, and digital applications were utilised to enhance accuracy in tracking and data collection.
Even with the encouraging developments, problems still exist. Of the 669 lion fatalities that were reported between 2020 and 2024, 57 were ascribed to unnatural causes. Effective techniques for mitigating human-wildlife conflict are necessary due to the proliferation of lions into regions inhabited by humans.
To guarantee the Asiatic lion population's long-term viability, the Gujarati government is still concentrating on habitat restoration, community involvement, and strict anti-poaching efforts.
