Gujarat govt committed to conservation of Asiatic lions: CM

Lion population in the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and surrounding forest went up from 523 in 2015 to 674 in 2020, the forest department had said in June. Meanwhile, while stressing the need to conserve the "natural heritage" in the form of lions, Rupani asked forest officials to ensure that lions do not contract any disease during monsoon.

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Monday said his government was committed to conservation of lions in the state. On the occasion of the World Lion Day, Rupani held a meeting of key officials working in the Gir forest, the only abode of Asiatic lions, via video conferencing from Gandhinagar, an official release said.

The CM said the increasing population of lions reflected the state government's resolve to protect them. Lion population in the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and surrounding forest went up from 523 in 2015 to 674 in 2020, the forest department had said in June.

Meanwhile, while stressing the need to conserve the "natural heritage" in the form of lions, Rupani asked forest officials to ensure that lions do not contract any disease during monsoon. Sasan-Gir DFO, Mohan Ram, told the chief minister that lions are being constantly monitored and expert veterinarians are also deployed at rescue centres to meet any emergency situation during monsoon.