Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the seventh meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) at Sasan, Junagadh, Gujarat. The meeting was attended by Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav and other members of the NBWL, and it focused on important wildlife conservation efforts, including the upcoming estimation of the Asiatic lion population and the launch of several conservation initiatives.
Asiatic Lion Population Estimation to be Held in May 2024
A major highlight of the meeting was the announcement regarding the 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation, set to take place in May 2024. This estimation will offer important insights into the current status of Asiatic lions, including their population growth, habitat conditions, and the challenges they face in conservation.
Steady Rise in Asiatic Lion Population
Prime Minister Modi, who embarked on a lion safari at Gir National Park before the meeting, emphasized the steady rise in the Asiatic lion population due to collective conservation efforts. He particularly acknowledged the contributions of tribal communities and women in preserving lion habitats.
Key Initiatives Announced
1. Establishment of the National Referral Centre for Wildlife in Junagadh
The Prime Minister has laid the foundation stone for a National Referral Centre for Wildlife, set to be developed on 20.24 hectares in New Pipalya, Junagadh. This centre will be essential for monitoring wildlife health, managing diseases, and conducting research.
2. Centre of Excellence for Human-Wildlife Conflict Management in Coimbatore
Recognizing the increasing human-wildlife conflicts, the government announced the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Human-Wildlife Conflict Management at SACON, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. This initiative aims to:
• Developing scientific methods to alleviate conflicts between humans and wildlife.
• Implementing strategies for sustainable co-existence.
• Improving wildlife conservation policies through research and policy recommendations.
3. Book Unveiling on River Dolphins
During the meeting, PM Modi unveiled a book on river dolphins, highlighting the importance of conserving aquatic biodiversity and protecting endangered freshwater species.
NBWL: A Crucial Body for Wildlife Conservation
The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) is a statutory advisory body that plays a pivotal role in shaping India’s wildlife conservation policies. The NBWL consists of 47 members, including:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the ex-officio chairperson.
- Union Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav as the vice-chairperson.
- Representatives from various states.
- NGOs, chief wildlife wardens, and secretaries from different states.
- The Chief of Army Staff.
Project Lion: A ₹2,900 Crore Conservation Initiative
The central government has approved over ₹2,900 crore under Project Lion, aimed at ensuring the long-term conservation of Asiatic lions, which are exclusively found in Gujarat.
Current Status of Asiatic Lions in Gujarat
- Asiatic lions now inhabit nearly 30,000 sq km across 53 talukas in 9 districts of Gujarat.
- The Greater Gir region remains the primary habitat, supported by multiple conservation projects.
- The state government, in collaboration with the Indian Railways, has introduced Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to prevent lion fatalities on railway tracks.
