Gandhinagar: Fresh data on the lion population and mortality in Gujarat has been tabled in the State Assembly, revealing significant figures related to both conservation efforts and deaths over the past two years.

As of January 31, 2026, the state is home to 255 adult male lions, 405 lionesses, and 231 cubs, according to official data presented in the House.

However, alongside the population details, the mortality figures have raised concerns. Between 2024 and January 2026, a total of 322 lions, lionesses, and cubs were reported dead in Gujarat.

2024: A total of 165 deaths were reported, including 40 adult males, 44 lionesses, 79 cubs, and 2 unidentified individuals. Of these, 39 deaths were classified as unnatural.

2025: The state recorded 148 lion deaths, comprising 32 adult males, 44 lionesses, 66 cubs, and 6 unidentified individuals. Of these, 22 deaths were reported as unnatural.

January 2026: In the first month of the year alone, 9 lion deaths were reported, including 3 classified as unnatural.

According to official data, a significant number of lions died due to both natural and unnatural causes over the past three years. Between January 1 and December 31, 2024, a total of 28 lions, 28 lionesses, and 68 cubs died of natural causes.

In 2025, natural deaths included 28 lions, 38 lionesses, and 55 cubs. In January 2026 (till January 31), two lions, one lioness, and three cubs died due to natural causes.

As for unnatural deaths, 2024 recorded 12 lions, 19 lionesses, and 11 cubs, while in 2025 the figures stood at four lions, five lionesses, and 11 cubs. In January 2026, one lion and two lionesses died due to unnatural causes, with no cub deaths reported during the period.

Measures Taken for Lion Protection

In response to the mortality trends, the Forest Department has implemented multiple measures to curb unnatural deaths and strengthen conservation efforts:

Advanced Medical Care: Deployment of modern lion ambulances, appointment of veterinary officers, and establishment of wildlife treatment centres.

High-Tech Monitoring: Radio-collaring of lions to track movement and installation of a high-tech monitoring unit at Sasan.

Accident Prevention: Installation of speed breakers on roads passing through sanctuary areas; construction of parapet walls around open wells in revenue areas; and completion of chain-link fencing along the Rajula–Pipavav railway track.

Enhanced Security: Rapid Action Teams, night patrolling, and joint patrols with police are being conducted to prevent poaching and other threats. CCTV cameras have also been installed in sensitive zones, with support from wildlife volunteers being utilized.

The government stated that it is focusing on technology-driven monitoring, medical intervention, and public awareness initiatives to reduce unnatural lion deaths and ensure the long-term conservation of the species in Gujarat. DeshGujarat