On the occasion of World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday engaged with ground staff at Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat, emphasizing the significance of wildlife conservation.
PM Modi also went on a lion safari in Gir, where he was seen wearing a jungle safari outfit and capturing glimpses of Asiatic lions with his camera.
In a post on social media, the Prime Minister reminisced about his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister and the efforts made toward wildlife conservation.
Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “This morning, on #WorldWildlifeDay, I went on a Safari in Gir, which, as we all know, is home to the majestic Asiatic Lion. Coming to Gir also brings back many memories of the work we collectively did when I was serving as Gujarat CM. In the last many years, collective efforts have ensured that the population of Asiatic Lions is rising steadily. Equally commendable is the role of tribal communities and women from surrounding areas in preserving the habitat of the Asiatic Lion.”
“Over the last decade, the population of tigers, leopards, rhinos have risen too, indicating how deeply we cherish wildlife and are working to build sustainable habitats for animals,” the Prime Minister added.
PM Modi’s Message On World Wildlife Day
Extending his wishes on World Wildlife Day, PM Modi stated, “Today, on World Wildlife Day, let’s reiterate our commitment to protect and preserve the incredible biodiversity of our planet. Every species plays a vital role — let’s safeguard their future for generations to come! We also take pride in India’s contributions towards preserving and protecting wildlife.”
Asiatic lions currently inhabit approximately 30,000 square kilometers across 53 talukas in nine districts of Gujarat.
To aid conservation efforts, the state government has launched several initiatives, including the establishment of a National Referral Center for Wildlife over 20.24 hectares of land in New Pipalya, Junagadh district.
PM Modi has played a significant role in the conservation of Asiatic lions and the development of the Gir region.
In 2007, as Gujarat’s Chief Minister, he personally visited the Gir forest to assess the ground situation and later introduced policies for holistic regional development and biodiversity conservation.
His concept of Bruhad Gir expanded conservation beyond Gir National Park and Sanctuary, covering a 30,000 sq. km area from Barda to Botad.
This initiative not only ensured better protection for Asiatic lions but also contributed to the welfare and progress of local communities.
