News in Frames: Tracking the kings
The population of Asiatic lions has grown significantly — from 177 in 1968 to 674 in the year 2020 — in the Gir Sanctuary, Gujarat, including the Greater Gir Forest. Today, the Greater Gir Forest has more lions than the Gir Sanctuary.
The government undertakes a population estimation of lions every five years. The 16th 'Lion Population Estimation' held between May 10 and 14 covered 35,000 sq.km., spanning 11 districts and 58 taluks. Almost 1,500 volunteers took part in the exercise, even though some of the efforts were hampered by unseasonal rain.
'We used digital cameras, camera traps, GPS, radio collaring, AI-based SIMBA software, GIS maps, and statistical software,' said Ram Ratan Nala, Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Circle, Junagadh. He added that more than 600 sarpanches and leaders were trained and included in this population estimate. Non-governmental organisations and interested citizens were also invited as observers.
A pride of 20 — 12 cubs, two adult males, and six lionesses — were found in Rajasthali Virsi in Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, said Rajan Joshi, a lion expert.
Community participation
While announcing the survey earlier in March, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had commended the active participation of local communities in conservation and emphasised the importance of utilising advanced technologies, including AI, in wildlife conservation.
Some lions are radio-collared, to help locate them and their prides.
The e-GujForest application also helps in real-time data entry of lion observations, said forest officials. The final findings will be announced by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, officials added.
Team in action: Foresters work alongside volunteers in the Gir Sanctuary during field activities
On the watch: Foresters accompany observers to monitor lions.
On the ground: A view of the reception centre of Sinh Sadan, Sasan, Gir Sanctuary, during the Lion Population Estimation, 2025 in Sasan on May 12.
At work: Two forest officials take notes while monitoring lions in the Gir Sanctuary.
Wild family: A lioness with four cubs.
Eyes on nature: Three camera traps deployed in the Gir Sanctuary.
Under lens: Two foresters capture images of a lion.
Keeping a watch: The king surveys his lands in Gir Sanctuary.
Living with nature: A Maldhari from Dudhala Nes with his livestock in the Gir Sanctuary.
In harmony: The Maldharis and their livestock have been coexisting with the lions for long in the sanctuary.
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