Total 21 important corridors have been identified by the Government as per the management plan for Gir Protected Area. The information was provided by Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh in Rajya Sabha on February 13, 2025 while replying to a question raised by Member of Parliament Shri Parimal Nathwani regarding lion corridors in Gir.
According to the statement of the minister, the Project Lion is being implemented in the Gir landscape in Gujarat. The Project envisages landscape ecology-based conservation of the Asiatic Lion in Gujarat by integrating conservation and eco-development. The Project Lion document titled “Lion @ 47: Vision for Amrutkal” has been prepared with the following objectives: To secure & restore lions’ habitats for managing its growing population; scale up livelihood generation and participation of local communities; become a global hub of knowledge on big cat disease diagnostics and treatment; and inclusive biodiversity conservation through the project lion initiative.
As per the information available with the Ministry, the Government of Gujarat has conducted comprehensive studies on lion corridors using modern technologies like radio collaring and GIS mapping. In the process, the relevant institutions are engaged. Various initiatives have been taken up to mitigate habitat fragmentation and human-wildlife conflict, which includes habitat restoration efforts, community engagement programs and scientific research for ensuring the long-term conservation efforts, said the minister.
The important steps taken by the Government for protection and conservation of Asiatic Lion and its habitat include:
1) A network of Protected Areas (National parks, Sanctuaries, Conservation Reserves and Community Reserves) has been created in the Gir area, legal protection provided to wild animals against hunting and commercial exploitation under the provisions of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
2) Coordination by Wild Life Crime Control Bureau with State/UTs and other enforcement agencies to gather intelligence about poaching and unlawful trade in wild animals and animal articles.
3) Involvement of the local communities in conservation measures through eco-development activities, which help the forest department in protection of Wildlife.
4) Effective monitoring and supervision of lion corridors and lion movement areas is carried out through patrolling of forest area.
5) Use of modern technology and IT initiatives has been taken for effective communication system for quick response.
