World Lion Day Celebrated in Gujarat with PM Modi and CM Patel
New Delhi, India – On August 10, the nation celebrated World Lion Day with a special focus on the Gir Forest in Junagadh, Gujarat, home to the Asiatic lion. The event was held at the Communication Centre in Sasangir, Junagadh, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
The celebration saw the presence of Gujarat Minister of Forests and Environment Mulubhai Bera. World Lion Day aims to raise awareness about the declining number of lions and the need for their conservation. Lions face threats such as habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the efforts of those involved in lion conservation. He shared stunning images of lions on his X handle and reiterated India’s commitment to protecting these majestic animals. PM Modi highlighted the increase in the lion population in Gir, Gujarat, and mentioned the International Big Cat Alliance, which aims to boost sustainable development and support community efforts globally.
Chief Minister Patel unveiled an exhibition of photographs showcasing Gir Forest’s biodiversity, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. The exhibition aims to raise awareness about the unique ecosystem of Gir Forest.
Project Lion, announced on August 15, 2020, is a significant initiative for the long-term conservation of Asiatic lions. The International Big Cats Alliance, launched in April 2023, fosters international cooperation among 97 range countries to protect big cats, including lions.
India’s conservation efforts have led to an increase in the Asiatic lion population in Gir Forest, from around 523 in 2015 to about 674 in 2020. World Lion Day, initiated by Big Cat Rescue, serves as a reminder of the need to protect these majestic animals.
Doubts Revealed
World Lion Day -: World Lion Day is a special day celebrated on August 10 every year to raise awareness about lions and the need to protect them.
Gujarat -: Gujarat is a state in western India. It is famous for the Gir Forest, which is the only place in the world where Asiatic lions live in the wild.
PM Modi -: PM Modi stands for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He is the leader of India and helps make important decisions for the country.
CM Patel -: CM Patel stands for Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. He is the leader of the state government in Gujarat.
Asiatic lion -: The Asiatic lion is a type of lion that lives in Asia, especially in the Gir Forest of Gujarat. They are different from the African lions.
Gir Forest -: Gir Forest is a large forest in Gujarat, India. It is the only place where Asiatic lions live in the wild.
International Big Cat Alliance -: The International Big Cat Alliance is a group that works to protect big cats like lions, tigers, and leopards all over the world.
Project Lion -: Project Lion is a special program started by the Indian government to help protect and increase the number of Asiatic lions in the Gir Forest.
X handle -: X handle refers to a username on a social media platform called X, which was previously known as Twitter. It is used to share messages and pictures online.
