PM Modi’s Lion Safari : On the occasion of World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a lion safari at the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat’s Junagadh district. This visit highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and the efforts being made to protect the Asiatic lions, a species that calls Gujarat its only home.
PM Modi’s Lion Safari:A Day in the Life of Conservation
PM Modi’s visit began with a night halt at Sinh Sadan, a forest guest house in Sasan, after offering prayers at the Somnath temple. Accompanied by several ministers and senior forest officials, he set out on the lion safari early in the morning. The Prime Minister also chaired the seventh meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) at Sasan Gir, the headquarters of the sanctuary. The NBWL, comprising 47 members including the Chief of Army Staff and representatives from various states and NGOs, plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation.
Project Lion: A Ray of Hope
The central government has approved over ₹2,900 crore for Project Lion, aimed at conserving the Asiatic lions. Currently, these lions inhabit nearly 30,000 square kilometers across 53 talukas in nine districts of Gujarat. As part of national wildlife conservation efforts, a National Referral Center for Wildlife is being established on over 20.24 hectares of land in Junagadh district. Additionally, a high-tech monitoring center and a state-of-the-art hospital have been set up in Sasan to enhance conservation initiatives.
Community and Conservation
PM Modi emphasized the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts. He highlighted the role of tribal communities and women from surrounding areas in preserving the habitat of the Asiatic lion. The Prime Minister also interacted with some women forest staffers at Sasan, acknowledging their contributions to wildlife protection.
A Call to Action
PM Modi urged everyone to reiterate their commitment to protecting and preserving the incredible biodiversity of the planet. He stressed that every species plays a vital role and that safeguarding their future is essential for generations to come. The Prime Minister also took pride in India’s contributions towards preserving and protecting wildlife.
Conclusion
PM Modi’s visit to Gir Wildlife Sanctuary on World Wildlife Day serves as a reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation. Through initiatives like Project Lion and the establishment of advanced conservation facilities, the government is taking significant steps to protect the Asiatic lions and other wildlife species. This visit also underscores the need for continued community involvement and collective efforts to ensure the survival of these majestic creatures.
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