3 March, 2025; Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on an exhilarating lion safari at the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary in Junagadh, Gujarat, on Monday, coinciding with the celebration of World Wildlife Day. The visit underscored India’s commitment to wildlife conservation and highlighted the success of efforts to protect the endangered Asiatic lions, which are found exclusively in the Gir Forest.
A Special Wildlife Experience
During his safari ride, PM Modi had the rare opportunity to witness the majestic Asiatic lions in their natural habitat. The Prime Minister shared glimpses of his visit on social media, expressing his admiration for the sanctuary’s biodiversity and the dedicated efforts of forest officials and conservationists in preserving India’s rich wildlife heritage.
Dressed in safari attire, Modi explored the rugged terrain of Gir, home to over 600 Asiatic lions, whose population has been steadily increasing due to sustained conservation measures. His visit also included interactions with forest officials and wildlife experts, where discussions centered around conservation strategies and sustainable eco-tourism.
Gir Forest: A Conservation Success Story
The Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1965, is the only place in the world where the Asiatic lion roams freely in the wild. Once on the brink of extinction due to habitat loss and poaching, the species has made a remarkable recovery thanks to stringent protection policies and awareness campaigns.
Under the Project Lion Initiative, launched by PM Modi in 2020, the government has been actively working on habitat restoration, reducing human-wildlife conflicts, and introducing advanced tracking and surveillance systems to monitor the lion population.
Modi’s Connection with Gir and Wildlife Conservation
As a former Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi has been deeply involved in the protection of Gir’s lions. His proactive policies played a significant role in increasing the lion population over the past two decades. Even after assuming the role of Prime Minister, he has continuously emphasized environmental conservation, with programs like Project Cheetah, Namami Gange, and the expansion of protected areas.
World Wildlife Day and India’s Conservation Efforts
The occasion of World Wildlife Day, observed annually on March 3, aims to raise awareness about global wildlife conservation. India, being home to diverse flora and fauna, has taken several initiatives to protect endangered species, including Project Tiger, Project Elephant, and Project Lion.
PM Modi’s visit to Gir serves as a reminder of India’s rich natural heritage and the importance of coexisting with wildlife. His commitment to conservation aligns with India’s broader vision of sustainable development and biodiversity preservation.
Conclusion
PM Narendra Modi’s safari in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary on World Wildlife Day was not just a personal experience but also a significant moment in highlighting India’s conservation success. His presence in the heart of the lion’s habitat reinforces the message of wildlife protection and sustainable ecological practices.
As India continues its conservation journey, Gir stands as a shining example of how dedicated efforts can revive and protect endangered species, ensuring that future generations witness the grandeur of the Asiatic lion in its natural domain.
