India is witnessing an extraordinary wildlife comeback. The Asiatic lion, once pushed to the brink of extinction, now thrives in Gujarat with nearly 900 individuals recorded in the latest census. This represents a remarkable 32 percent increase since 2020, a conservation achievement that has drawn praise both nationally and internationally. For decades, Gir National Park has been the heart of this recovery effort, and the results show how dedicated protection can bring a species back from the edge.
But success has brought unexpected challenges. With lion numbers climbing and territories expanding, the majestic animals are increasingly roaming outside Gir’s protected core into farmland and villages. That expansion has sparked deadly encounters. In the past year alone, at least seven people have been killed in lion attacks, including the heartbreaking case of a five-year-old child dragged from his home. Livestock attacks have also doubled, straining the livelihoods of rural families who depend on cattle and goats for survival.
Authorities are trying to respond by extending protected areas beyond Gir, developing corridors like the Barda Sanctuary, and creating zones where human settlement is restricted. Yet with only around 20 percent of lions staying within Gir’s core, conservation efforts are colliding with the daily realities of village life. Compensation schemes, rapid response teams, and community education programs are being discussed as part of a larger coexistence strategy.
For conservationists, the rebound of the Asiatic lion is nothing short of a miracle, a living reminder that determined protection can restore what was nearly lost. For villagers living near lion ranges, however, the miracle is often overshadowed by fear and economic loss. The path forward lies in striking a delicate balance—protecting the pride of India’s wilderness while ensuring that the people who share that wilderness can live in safety and dignity.