Following a celebratory picnic at Gir National Park on World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made significant announcements regarding wildlife conservation in Junagadh on Monday.
Junagadh: After enjoying a picnic at Gir National Park on World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made important announcements concerning wildlife conservation in Junagadh on Monday. He laid the foundation stone for a 'National Referral Centre' dedicated to advanced conservation and medical care for Asiatic lions and announced a lion census to be conducted in May 2025.
A New Dimension in Wildlife Conservation
Prime Minister Modi chaired the seventh meeting of the National Wildlife Board (NBWL), where various wildlife-related issues were discussed. The meeting was attended by the Chief of Army Staff, secretaries from various states, wildlife experts, and representatives from voluntary organizations. The government has approved ₹2900 crore under 'Project Lion' for the conservation of Asiatic lions. This plan focuses on securing the lions' natural habitat and providing modern facilities for their health monitoring.
High-Tech Monitoring Centre and a State-of-the-Art Hospital in Gir
On this occasion, the Prime Minister announced a high-tech wildlife monitoring center and a state-of-the-art hospital in Sasan Gir, which will provide scientific solutions to the health-related problems of lions and other wildlife. Furthermore, a 'National Referral Centre' is being constructed on 20.24 hectares of land in New Pipliya, Junagadh district, which will play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of wildlife diseases.
Asiatic Lion Census in May
Prime Minister Modi announced that a comprehensive census of Asiatic lions will be conducted in May 2025. This census will utilize modern technology to ensure accurate data collection. Currently, these lions are spread across approximately 30,000 square kilometers in 53 talukas across nine districts of Gujarat. Prime Minister Modi spoke with women forest workers in Sasan, sharing their experiences and commending their contribution to wildlife conservation. He emphasized that women's participation is bringing a new dimension to wildlife conservation.
Prime Minister Modi's visit is expected to inject new impetus into wildlife conservation efforts in Gujarat. This government initiative will not only strengthen the protection of Asiatic lions but also give India a new global identity in the field of wildlife conservation.
