New Delhi, Oct 10 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu is currently on a three-day visit to Gujarat, where she toured Gir National Park on Friday. During her visit, she engaged with the local tribal community, commending their nature-oriented way of life, which she described as an inspiration for everyone. She began her activities with Darshan and Puja at the Somnath Temple.

Additionally, the President paid her respects by laying floral tributes at the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel located near the temple.

Subsequently, she visited Gir National Park and interacted with local tribal members at Sasan Gir. During this exchange, she remarked that tribal communities possess numerous opportunities for advancement. She encouraged them to strive for the highest quality education for their children.

She was pleased to discover that the literacy rate among the Siddi tribal community, a primitive tribal group, exceeds 72 percent.

President Murmu highlighted that the Government of India has initiated various programs aimed at the welfare of tribal communities. She urged everyone to familiarize themselves with development and welfare schemes and not only benefit personally but also to involve their village and community in these initiatives, as per a statement.

The President emphasized that the environmentally conscious lifestyle of the tribal communities serves as a source of inspiration for all.

She noted that with the active participation of our tribal brothers and sisters, efforts are being made to forge a society and nation characterized by equality, justice, and respect, where the customs and traditions of tribal communities are honored, and their rights are safeguarded. This is essential for transforming India into a developed nation by 2047.

On the official account of Rashtrapati Bhavan on X, images from President Murmu's visit to Gir National Park were shared, along with the message: "President Droupadi Murmu visited Gir National Park, known for its majestic Asiatic lions and rich biodiversity. She also interacted with local tribal communities, emphasizing the importance of development alongside tradition preservation."

Notably, Gir National Park in Gujarat is one of the few places globally, along with Africa, where lions can be seen in their natural habitat.

The forest area of Gir National Park is classified as dry and deciduous, providing an ideal environment for Asiatic Lions.

The 14th census of Asiatic lions conducted in May 2015 reported a lion population of 523, which marked a 27 percent increase compared to the 2010 census. The lion population in 2010 was recorded at 411 and 359 in 2005.

Each year, the Gir National Park closes during the monsoon season from June 16 to October 15.

However, Gir National Park and its sanctuary face numerous threats and challenges to their ecosystem.

These threats include recurrent droughts, cyclones, forest fires, and pollution from nearby railway lines.