World Lion Day 2026: Asiatic lion population up from 523 in 2015 to 891 in 2025, says Bhupender Yadav

World Lion Day is observed on August 10 every year. Photos Courtesy: PTI

The Asiatic lion population in India steadily increased from 523 in 2015 to 891 in 2025, Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said on Monday.

Marking World Lion Day 2026, in a post on X, the minister said that the success in conserving the Asiatic lion is a proud testament to the country's commitment to wildlife and biodiversity.

"From protecting critical habitats to strengthening conservation efforts, India has demonstrated that development and nature conservation can move forward together," Yadav said.

"As we mark World Lion Day, let us reaffirm our resolve to safeguard our natural heritage and ensure that the roar of the Asiatic Lion continues to resonate for generations to come," he added.

The Project Lion was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15 in 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.

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