PM Narendra Modi Enjoys Safari at Gir National Park
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated World Wildlife Day on 3rd March by enjoying a safari at the Gir National Park in Sasan, Gujarat. This was his first safari since becoming Prime Minister. As Gujarat's Chief Minister, Modi played a crucial role in making Sasan a major global tourism destination.
After the safari, at 10 AM, he chaired a meeting of the Wildlife Board at the Sinh Sadan in Sasan, which has 47 members, including the Chief of Army Staff, representatives from various states, NGOs, and the Forest Secretary. Following this, PM Modi visited the Somnath Temple for a darshan before departing for Delhi from Rajkot.
Efforts for Gir National Park's Development and Asiatic Lion Conservation
PM Modi, during his tenure as Gujarat's Chief Minister, took significant steps for the development of Sasan Gir and the protection of Asiatic Lions. Today, Sasan Gir attracts thousands of tourists from across the world to witness these majestic lions.
Currently, there are approximately 30,000 square kilometers in 53 talukas of nine districts in Gujarat where the Asiatic lion population resides. PM Modi has worked extensively for the conservation of these lions and the overall development of the Gir region.
In 2007, after an incident involving the poaching of lions, the Gujarat government established the Greater Gir Wildlife Conservation Task Force in Junagadh. This initiative aimed at monitoring wildlife crimes, gathering intelligence, and strengthening conservation efforts for Asiatic Lions and other wildlife in their habitat.
As Chief Minister, Modi introduced the concept of Greater Gir, which extends beyond the Gir National Park and Sanctuary to an area of 30,000 square kilometers, encompassing the habitats of Asiatic lions. He ensured the development of both the Gir region and its local population.
Under his leadership, for the first time, the recruitment of women Beat Guards and Forest Rangers in the forest department of the Gir region was undertaken. Today, approximately 111 women are actively working in the Gir area.
Monthly review meetings chaired by the Inspector General (IG) of the Junagadh Range were started to monitor the condition of the Gir region and Asiatic lions. In 2007, the Gujarat State Lion Conservation Society (GSLC) was established to promote the conservation of Asiatic lions through public participation. The society funds veterinary officers, herders, trackers, and other necessary personnel for lion conservation. Revenue from eco-tourism in Gir is directed to GSLC to support wildlife conservation and improve the forest department's infrastructure.
The Gujarat government also launched the Wild Panu Mitra Scheme to enhance lion conservation efforts. This initiative aims to raise awareness, track the activities of lions and other wildlife, and assist the forest department in rescue operations and conservation efforts.