The prey base for Asiatic Lions in Gir, Gujarat, has risen by 37% in the last five years. According to data provided in the Rajya Sabha, the prey base has increased from 1,55,659 in 2019 to 2,13,391 in 2024.
Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Kirti Vardhan Singh disclosed the figures in a reply to a question raised by Rajya Sabha MP Parimal Nathwani.
Singh explained that prey base augmentation enclosures have been established for key species such as Spotted deer (Axis axis) and Sambar (Rusa unicolor) across various locations in Gir to ensure a stable prey population.
The enclosures are set up at Krangasa, Vadvangada, Ambardi, Kileshwar-1, Kileshwar-2, Rampara, and Karjada for Sambar, and Satvirada and Rampara for Spotted deer.
The Minister further stated that regular population assessments of herbivores are being conducted to monitor trends and ensure a sustainable prey base. Additionally, measures have been implemented to reduce conflicts between lions and humans. These include the construction of physical barriers such as solar-powered electric fences, bio-fencing, and boundary walls, as well as radio-collaring selected lions to track their movement patterns.
To address concerns about lions migrating into human settlements, rescue teams and trackers are on standby to relocate animals from populated areas. The government is also investing in habitat improvement projects in protected areas and other lion habitats. Financial support is being provided for human injuries and cattle deaths caused by lion attacks.
These efforts are part of a broader initiative to maintain the growing lion population in Gir while ensuring the safety of both wildlife and local communities.
Also Read: Gujarat’s Energy Supply Rises by 28% Between 2020 and 2024: Centre to Parimal Nathwani
