India’s Asiatic Lion Population Reaches 891

India’s Asiatic lion population increased from 523 in 2015 to 891 in 2025, as recorded in the 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation. The species is found mainly in Gujarat’s Gir and Greater Gir landscape, and its range has expanded from about 30,000 square kilometres in 2020 to nearly 35,000 square kilometres.

Asiatic Lion: Species Profile

The Asiatic lion is a subspecies of lion scientifically known as Panthera leo persica. Its only natural wild population survives in India, mainly in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. The species is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Population Estimation and Census Method

The 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation was conducted from 10 to 13 May 2025 across 11 districts in Gujarat. The exercise used the direct beat verification method and involved more than 3,800 forest officials and local volunteers. The published count of 891 lions included 330 adult females and a satellite population of 497 lions outside core protected areas.

Project Lion and Conservation Measures

Project Lion was launched on 15 August 2020 for long-term conservation of the Asiatic lion. The project includes disease surveillance, veterinary support, habitat improvement, and landscape-level management. These measures are linked to the protection of the species in Gir and Greater Gir.

Important Facts for Exams

• World Lion Day is observed on 10 August every year.
• The Asiatic lion is the only lion population found in the wild in India.
• Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary are the main habitats of the species.
• The 2025 population count recorded 891 Asiatic lions in Gujarat.

Key Numerical Facts

The lion population grew by 32.2% from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025. The decadal growth from 523 in 2015 to 891 in 2025 was 70.36%.