World Lion Day: A Tribute to the Majestic Lion

Tags: Important Days

Celebrated on August 10th, World Lion Day was initiated by Big Cat Rescue, a renowned sanctuary dedicated to big cats.

An Overview of the News

• The day aims to raise global awareness about the declining lion population and the need for their conservation.

• It serves as a reminder of the vital role lions play in maintaining ecological balance and the importance of their protection.

• The official theme for World Lion Day 2024 is “Celebrating the King of the Jungle”.

Project Lion: Securing the Future of Asiatic Lions

• Announced in 2020, Project Lion focuses on long-term conservation efforts for Asiatic lions, particularly in the Gir Forest.

• Key components include habitat improvement, advanced monitoring technologies, and addressing human-wildlife conflicts.

• The Gujarat Forest Department plays a vital role in these efforts, ensuring safe habitats and prompt emergency responses.

International Big Cats Alliance: A Global Conservation Effort

• Launched in April 2023, the International Big Cats Alliance (IBCA) unites 97 range countries in the mission to conserve big cats, including lions.

• The alliance promotes international cooperation, sharing knowledge and resources to enhance conservation strategies globally.

Advanced Technologies and Initiatives in Lion Conservation

• Modern ICT tools like GPS-based tracking, automated sensor grids, night vision, and GIS-based real-time monitoring are integral to lion conservation.

• The Greater Gir Concept expands protected habitats beyond Gir National Park, while habitat improvement measures ensure resources for lions.

• Enhanced protection mechanisms include the creation of a Wildlife Crime Cell, Task Force, and safety enhancements like covering open wells.

Background of World Lion Day

• World Lion Day was founded in 2013 by Big Cat Rescue, the largest accredited lion sanctuary.

• Co-founded by Dereck and Beverly Joubert, who aimed to address the decline of lion populations and their threats.

• The Jouberts launched the Big Cat Initiative (B.C.I.) with "National Geographic" in 2009.

• In 2013, they combined efforts to protect wild big cats under one unified mission.