“India’s rich biodiversity is a heritage we must preserve for future generations. The Asiatic lion is not just Gujarat’s pride but India’s pride — our conservation efforts will set a global benchmark.” — PM Narendra Modi at 7th NBWL Meeting
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently chaired the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) 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.
The landmark meeting witnessed the announcement of the 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation in May 2024, the launch of wildlife health and human-wildlife conflict research centers, and the reinforcement of Project Lion’s ₹2,900 crore commitment for Asiatic lion conservation.
🦁 About National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)
The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) 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 — the only natural home of the Asiatic lion — the 7th meeting emphasized the government’s dedication to protecting endangered species.
Prime Minister 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.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | National Board for Wildlife |
| Chairperson | Prime Minister (ex-officio) |
| Vice-Chairperson | Union Environment Minister |
| Total Members | 47 members (including state officials, NGOs, Army Chief) |
| Key Role | Apex advisory body for wildlife conservation policy |
| Established Under | Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 |
Think of NBWL as the “Supreme Court” of wildlife conservation in India. Just as the Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority, NBWL is the highest advisory body for wildlife matters. The PM chairs it (like the Chief Justice), and it includes 47 members from different backgrounds (like judges from various fields). All major wildlife decisions need NBWL approval!
🌲 Gir National Park: 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. Gujarat’s Gir Forest is the only place in the world where Asiatic lions roam in the wild — making it one of India’s most important conservation success stories.
Currently, Asiatic lions roam across 30,000 sq. km in Gujarat, spanning 9 districts and 53 talukas. This expansion from the original Gir sanctuary shows the success of conservation efforts.
| Conservation Measure | Details |
|---|---|
| Technology-Driven Monitoring | GPS tracking, satellite collars, and AI-based surveillance |
| Community Engagement | Tribal groups participate in habitat protection with livelihood support |
| Rescue & Healthcare | Dedicated teams for lion rescue operations and disease control |
| Railway Safety SOPs | Created with Indian Railways to minimize collision accidents |
| Territory Coverage | 30,000 sq. km across 9 districts, 53 talukas |
Gir Facts: Only wild habitat of Asiatic lion worldwide | Gujarat | 30,000 sq km | 9 districts | 53 talukas | Uses GPS, satellite collars, AI monitoring
📊 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation 2024
One of the most anticipated announcements was the 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation, scheduled for May 2024. This census is crucial for understanding population trends and guiding future conservation policies.
| Census Purpose | Significance |
|---|---|
| Population Trends | Ensures lion numbers are increasing sustainably |
| Habitat Health Assessment | Evaluates prey base, forest conditions, and encroachment threats |
| Conservation Policy Guidance | Informs decisions on relocation, rewilding, and funding |
| Ecosystem Monitoring | Checks if Gir’s water resources can sustain more lions |
| Genetic Diversity | Assesses inbreeding risks and need for territory expansion |
The Asiatic lion population is concentrated in one location (Gujarat). What happens if a disease outbreak occurs? This “single population” risk is why conservationists push for establishing a second population elsewhere. The 2018 Canine Distemper Virus outbreak killed 23 lions, highlighting this vulnerability.
🏥 Key Conservation Initiatives Announced
The meeting witnessed the launch of two major conservation projects that will strengthen India’s wildlife protection infrastructure.
| Initiative | Location | Key Functions |
|---|---|---|
| National Referral Centre for Wildlife | Junagadh, Gujarat (20.24 hectares at New Pipalya) | Wildlife disease monitoring, veterinary research, rapid response teams |
| Centre of Excellence for Human-Wildlife Conflict Management | SACON, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu | Studies conflicts, develops mitigation strategies, promotes coexistence |
| Junagadh Centre Features | Coimbatore Centre Features |
|---|---|
| Tracks health trends, identifies outbreaks | Studies real-world human-wildlife conflicts |
| Develops treatments for wildlife diseases | Uses scientific models and local engagement |
| Handles medical emergencies for lions, elephants | Promotes coexistence frameworks |
| India’s premier wildlife health research hub | Provides policy recommendations for conflict mitigation |
Don’t confuse: National Referral Centre for Wildlife is in Junagadh, Gujarat (for wildlife health/disease). Centre of Excellence for Human-Wildlife Conflict is in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (at SACON — Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology). Remember: “J for Junagadh = Jeevan (life/health)” and “C for Coimbatore = Conflict”.
🦁 Project Lion: ₹2,900 Crore Conservation Initiative
The Government of India has allocated ₹2,900 crore for Project Lion, reinforcing its commitment to Asiatic lion conservation. This comprehensive program aims to set a global benchmark in large carnivore conservation.
| Project Lion Objective | Description |
|---|---|
| Habitat Restoration | Strengthening corridors for better lion 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 |
| Genetic Diversity | Reducing inbreeding risks through territory expansion |
| Eco-Tourism Development | Sustainable wildlife tourism benefiting local communities |
Click to flip • Master key facts
For GDPI, Essay Writing & Critical Analysis
5 questions • Instant feedback
The 7th NBWL Meeting was held at Sasan, Junagadh, Gujarat — the only natural home of the Asiatic lion in the world.
The Government of India has allocated ₹2,900 crore for Project Lion for Asiatic lion conservation.
The Prime Minister is the ex-officio chairperson of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL).
The Centre of Excellence for Human-Wildlife Conflict Management is located at SACON (Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.
The 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation is scheduled for May 2024.
