PM Modi's Visit to Sasan Gir in Gujarat for World Wildlife Day
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Synopsis
On World Wildlife Day, PM Modi visits Sasan Gir in Gujarat to inaugurate a veterinary hospital for Asiatic lions and chair a National Board for Wildlife meeting, emphasizing conservation financing and community involvement.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi visits Sasan Gir for World Wildlife Day.
- Inauguration of veterinary hospital for Asiatic lions.
- Focus on wildlife conservation financing.
- Engagement with women forest staff.
- Strengthening local community involvement in conservation.
New Delhi, March 3 (NationPress) On World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Sasan Gir, a renowned wildlife sanctuary located in Gujarat on Monday. This year's theme, "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet," highlights the necessity of sustainable financing and community participation in conservation efforts.
During his visit, PM Modi will officially open a new veterinary hospital aimed at providing essential care for the Asiatic lions. Following this, he will head back to Singh Sadan to preside over a meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), where national wildlife conservation topics will be addressed. The Prime Minister will also engage with female forest personnel in Sasan, promoting gender inclusivity in conservation.
Gujarat, the last refuge for the world's population of Asiatic lions, has made considerable progress in safeguarding and maintaining these magnificent animals and the region's diverse ecosystem.
Currently, Asiatic lions inhabit an area spanning 30,000 square kilometers across 53 talukas in nine districts of Gujarat. To enhance conservation efforts, the state has established a National Referral Centre for Wildlife over 20.24 hectares in Junagadh. Furthermore, advanced wildlife monitoring facilities and a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital in Sasan have been created to ensure superior care for these endangered species.
Gujarat's Home Minister, Harsh Sanghvi, praised the joint efforts of the Gujarat Police and the Forest Department in safeguarding and promoting the growth of lion populations.
In 2024, the state hired 237 beat guards (162 men and 75 women) to bolster surveillance and enhance protection in the Gir Protected Area. These initiatives are part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at preserving not only the Asiatic lions but also other endangered species in the vicinity.
The state's ongoing dedication to wildlife conservation is evident in the successful implementation of the 'Gir Samvad Setu' initiative. More than 300 programs have been conducted to address local community issues and foster their participation in conservation. Additionally, nine breeding centers have been established to protect herbivorous species vital to the Gir ecosystem.
