PM Modi Leads 7th NBWL Meeting: Key Wildlife Conservation Initiatives & Asiatic Lion Protection
Introduction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently chaired the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife in Sasan, Junagadh, Gujarat, reaffirming India’s commitment to wildlife conservation and biodiversity protection. Accompanied by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and leading conservationists, the meeting focused on critical wildlife initiatives, including the much-anticipated 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation in May 2024 and the launch of wildlife health and human-wildlife conflict research centers.
With India’s rich biodiversity facing increasing challenges, this meeting underscored the strategic efforts needed to sustain endangered species and enhance conservation frameworks.
Table of Contents
- Significance of the 7th NBWL Meeting
- Gir National Park: The Stronghold of Asiatic Lions
- 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation 2024
- Key Wildlife Conservation Initiatives Announced
- National Referral Centre for Wildlife, Junagadh
- Centre of Excellence for Human-Wildlife Conflict Management, Coimbatore
- Expanding Asiatic Lion Territory in Gujarat
- Project Lion: ₹2,900 Crore for Asiatic Lion Conservation
- Role of NBWL in India’s Wildlife Conservation
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Significance of the 7th NBWL Meeting
The National Board for Wildlife serves as India’s apex advisory body on wildlife conservation. It plays a crucial role in shaping policies, allocating resources, and monitoring conservation projects.
By convening in Gir National Park, Gujarat—the only natural home of the Asiatic lion—the 7th NBWL meeting emphasized the government’s dedication to protecting endangered species while addressing broader ecological concerns.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as the ex-officio chairperson of NBWL, spearheaded discussions alongside 47 key members, including state officials, NGOs, and the Chief of Army Staff, ensuring a multi-stakeholder approach to conservation.
Gir National Park: The Stronghold of Asiatic Lions
Before the official session, PM Modi visited Gir National Park, where he commended the steady growth of the Asiatic lion population.
Key Conservation Measures in Gir:
✔️ Technology-Driven Monitoring: Use of GPS tracking, satellite collars, and AI-based surveillance to monitor lion movements.
✔️ Community Engagement: Local communities, especially tribal groups, actively participate in habitat protection and receive support for sustainable livelihoods.
✔️ Rescue & Healthcare: Dedicated teams handle lion rescue operations and disease control.
With conservation efforts bearing fruit, Gir remains a model for successful species revival.
16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation 2024
One of the most anticipated announcements was the 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation, scheduled for May 2024.
Why This Census Matters?
Tracks population trends – Ensures lion numbers are increasing sustainably.
Assesses habitat health – Evaluates prey base, forest conditions, and encroachment threats.
Guides conservation policy – Informs decisions on relocation, rewilding, and funding.
Experts eagerly await the results, as they will shape future strategies for lion conservation on a global scale.
Key Wildlife Conservation Initiatives Announced
The meeting witnessed the launch of two major conservation projects:
National Referral Centre for Wildlife, Junagadh
Location: Junagadh, Gujarat (20.24 hectares at New Pipalya)
Wildlife Disease Monitoring: Tracks health trends, identifies outbreaks.
Advanced Veterinary Research: Develops treatments for wildlife diseases.
Rapid Response Teams: Handles medical emergencies for lions, elephants, and other endangered species.
This center is set to become India’s premier hub for wildlife health research.
Centre of Excellence for Human-Wildlife Conflict Management, Coimbatore
Location: Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON), Tamil Nadu
Studies real-world human-wildlife conflicts (e.g., elephants damaging crops, leopard attacks).
Develops conflict mitigation strategies using scientific models and local engagement.
Promotes coexistence frameworks between wildlife conservation and human settlements.
As human-wildlife conflicts rise, this center will provide critical policy recommendations.
Expanding Asiatic Lion Territory in Gujarat
Currently, Asiatic lions roam across 30,000 sq. km in Gujarat, spanning 9 districts and 53 talukas.
However, habitat expansion brings challenges:
Railway & Road Collisions – SOPs created with Indian Railways to minimize accidents.
Encroachment & Land Use Conflicts – Need for eco-sensitive development policies.
Prey-Predator Balance – Requires continuous monitoring.
Project Lion: ₹2,900 Crore for Asiatic Lion Conservation
The Government of India has allocated ₹2,900 crore for Project Lion, reinforcing its commitment to Asiatic lion conservation.
Objectives:
Habitat Restoration – Strengthening corridors for better movement.
Relocation & Safety – Ensuring lions have ample protected areas.
Anti-Poaching & Law Enforcement – Stricter monitoring and penalties for illegal activities.
Community-Based Conservation – Providing incentives for local involvement.
With this funding, India aims to set a global benchmark in large carnivore conservation.
Role of NBWL in India’s Wildlife Conservation
As India’s premier wildlife policy-making body, NBWL is crucial in:
Drafting long-term strategies for species protection.
Sanctioning major conservation projects like Project Tiger & Project Lion.
Coordinating between central & state agencies for seamless execution.
NBWL ensures that India remains at the forefront of biodiversity conservation.
FAQs
Why is the Asiatic lion only found in Gujarat?
The Asiatic lion was once found across Persia, the Middle East, and India, but excessive hunting and habitat destruction led to their near-extinction. By the early 20th century, their population was restricted to Gujarat’s Gir Forest, where strong conservation measures have ensured their survival. Today, Gujarat remains the only place in the world where Asiatic lions roam in the wild.
How does India manage human-wildlife conflict?
India has developed scientific and community-driven approaches to reduce human-wildlife conflicts:
Compensation programs – Farmers receive compensation for livestock losses due to predation.
Bio-fencing & barriers – Solar-powered fencing and trenches prevent wildlife from straying into human settlements.
Rapid response teams – Wildlife authorities act swiftly to manage encounters between animals and humans.
Awareness programs – Educating local communities about co-existence strategies helps reduce panic-driven actions.
What is Project Lion’s long-term impact?
Project Lion is a comprehensive conservation program aiming to:
Increase lion population & genetic diversity – Expanding their territory reduces inbreeding risks.
Establish new lion habitats – Creating alternative sanctuaries in Gujarat and potentially in other states.
Strengthen monitoring & law enforcement – Ensuring strict anti-poaching measures.
Develop eco-tourism – Encouraging sustainable wildlife tourism while benefiting local communities.
Why is the 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation significant?
This estimation, scheduled for May 2024, will provide:
Accurate data on lion numbers – Confirming if the population is increasing or facing threats.
Ecosystem health assessment – Checking if Gir’s prey base and water resources can sustain more lions.
Policy-making insights – Helping authorities decide on habitat expansion and protection measures.
How does the NBWL contribute to wildlife conservation?
The National Board for Wildlife is India’s highest advisory body on wildlife conservation, with responsibilities including:
Approving wildlife conservation projects.
Recommending policy changes for endangered species.
Coordinating efforts between states, NGOs, and research institutions.
Ensuring responsible land use to protect natural habitats from urban encroachment.
Conclusion
The 7th National Board for Wildlife Meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marked a significant step forward in India’s wildlife conservation efforts. By focusing on the 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation, launching wildlife health and human-wildlife conflict research centers, and reinforcing Project Lion’s ₹2,900 crore commitment, the meeting set the stage for sustainable biodiversity protection.
India’s unique wildlife heritage, from the Asiatic lion in Gujarat to the river dolphins in the Ganges, requires a holistic approach to conservation. By leveraging technology, community participation, and government funding, the nation is not only securing the future of its iconic species but also strengthening its global leadership in conservation.
The initiatives announced at the 7th NBWL meeting reflect a long-term vision to balance wildlife protection with human development. As habitat loss, climate change, and urbanization pose growing threats, proactive policies and international collaboration will be key to ensuring India’s wildlife thrives for generations to come.
Key Takeaways Table
| Aspect | Details |
| 7th NBWL Meeting | Chaired by PM Modi, focused on wildlife conservation. |
| 16th Asiatic Lion Census 2024 | Will assess population trends and habitat health. |
| Wildlife Research Centers | Established in Junagadh and Coimbatore for conservation research. |
| Project Lion Budget | ₹2,900 crore allocated for habitat restoration and protection. |
| Human-Wildlife Conflict | New strategies and policies introduced to manage conflicts. |
| Gir National Park’s Role | Stronghold for Asiatic lions; focus on monitoring and protection. |
| Expansion of Lion Habitat | Efforts to increase safe territories for Asiatic lions. |
