Gir

National Park
& Sanctuary
 Gir Welfare Fund
Sasan-Gir
Conserving lions and other wildlife is not an easy task. It takes co-operation and hard work on part of numerous people. The frontline
forest staff has been putting in painstaking efforts that often go unnoticed. They protect the Asiatic Lion Landscape risking their lives.
These soldiers of Asiatic Lion Landscape and their families should be recognised and supported. .
With this view in mind, the Gujarat Forest Department established a public trust called the Late Shri Visana Memorial Gir Forest
Staff Welfare Association in the memory of Shri Shaktisinh Visana who laid down his life for the cause of wildlife protection and
conservation. The main objectives of the trust are to provide assistance to the forest personnel of the Asiatic Lion Landscape. .
The Gir Welfare Fund (GWF) operates under the association. The funds generated through the activities of the GWF are utilized for
betterment of facilities, development of infrastructure, provision of necessary assistance to the frontline staff and their families as well
as in improvising and developing wildlife protection measures. The trust also has a Group Insurance Policy for the forest staff. .
The Souvenir shop at Sinh Sadan, Sasan Gir and canteen at Gir Interpretation Zone, Devalia are run under the GWF. The profit
obtained through the sale of products at these facilities is directly deposited in the GWF. Every purchase made contributes
significantly to conservation and improving livelihoods of the people protecting our forests. GWF also accepts donations. .
Let's acknowledge the unsung heroes who work with all their might in otherwise unrewarding circumstances. .
From the President's Desk…

Dear Visitor, .
Greetings from Gir National Park & Sanctuary! .
I welcome you to experience the charisma of this place and appreciate you sparing some time out to read this. The booklet
you hold aims to generate awareness and imbibe conservation responsibility among visitors and other people. .
The booklet on Gir National Park & Sanctuary has been put up together by a lot of hard work on part of the development team.
It humbly tries to bring the painstaking efforts and toil of the forest staff to light which otherwise goes unreported. The booklet
has been produced under the aegis of the Gir Welfare Fund which was found in the loving memory of an officer who laid down
his life for the noble cause of wildlife protection and conservation. .
I invite you to read it and enlighten yourself regarding Gir. By purchasing this document, you have contributed majorly to the
noble cause of conservation and have been instrumental in commending all the hard work being put in by the forest staff in
protection of this beautiful forest, the landscape and wildlife. Your contribution will be used for the betterment of the ground
staff's life and also aid in up-scaling our ongoing and relentless conservation efforts. .
Thank you for being a Conservation Hero! .
Enjoy your visit! .
Dr. Mohan Ram, IFS
President, Gir Welfare Fund
 Note to the reader

Dear reader,
Gir is a picturesque landscape where wildlife presents itself in all its grandeur. Gir is known for being the last abode
of the Asiatic Lion. For any visitor to Gir, a sighting of the Asiatic Lion and the sheer opulence the species exudes is a
memory to cherish for a lifetime. A nature enthusiast who visits Gir is bound to keep returning to experience the
holistic beauty that the landscape has to offer. .
This booklet is aimed at providing more detailed information about Gir which may be missed during a short visit.
The booklet is targeted to reach out to anyone keen about Gir: an amateur nature enthusiast, a professional
photographer, a park manager, a researcher or an occasional tourist. The booklet has been designed to provide
interesting information and entails details about the Gir National Park & Sanctuary in a succinct manner. .
We sincerely hope that you enjoy going through this document and enrich yourselves with the information about
this amazing landscape, its wildlife and its people. This booklet is our earnest effort in ensuring a much aware and
environmentally responsible audience. We affirmatively desire a sustainable and eco-friendly demeanour during your
visit and look forward to a perennial support in conserving wildlife and its habitats. .

Thank you!
Wildlife Division Team, Sasan Gir
Revised by : Dr. Mohan Ram, IFS, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Division, Sasan Gir
& President, Gir Welfare Fund
Under the direction of : Shri D.T. Vasavada, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Circle, Junagadh
Content Development : Ms. Himani Patel, Dr. Dhawal Mehta
Facilitation : Shri S. P. Chandera, Mr. Karsan Vala, Mr. Yashpal Zala
Image courtesy : Dr. Mohan Ram, Mr. Karsan Vala, Ms. Himani Patel, Mr. Lahar Jhala,
Dr. Dhawal Mehta, Mr. Darshit Mesariya, Wildlife Division Sasan Gir image repository
Published by : Gir Welfare Fund
First edition : 1997
Second edition : 2001
Third edition : 2005
Fourth edition : 2006
Fifth edition : 2008
Sixth edition : 2010
Seventh edition : 2012
Eighth edition : 2013
Ninth edition : 2015
Tenth edition : 2020

Price : 150
Contents
1. INTRODUCTION............................................................... 2
2. AREA AND APPROACH................................................. 4
3. PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT......................................... 6
4. FLORA AND FAUNA....................................................... 10
5. CONSERVATION VALUES............................................ 18
6. THE ASIATIC LION.......................................................... 20
7. NESSES & FOREST SETTLEMENT VILLAGES....... 26
8. HUMAN - WILDLIFE CONFLICT................................ 30
9. WILDLIFE VETERINARY CARE.................................... 32
10. MANAGEMENT IN THE GIR PA............................... 36
11. ORGANIZATION.............................................................. 48
12. NATURE EDUCATION AND TRAINING................. 50
13. ECO-DEVELOPMENT...................................................... 52
14. ECO-TOURISM.................................................................. 54
15. TESTIMONIALS................................................................ 62
16. DOS AND DON'TS.......................................................... 66
His majesty- The Asiatic Lion

1
1. INTRODUCTION
The Gir National Park & Sanctuary is famous for the Asiatic Lion all over the world. It is one of India's oldest sanctuary
and the only place in India to see the Majestic Asiatic Lion in its natural habitat. The sanctuary has the largest
compact tract of dry deciduous forest in the semi-arid western part of the country. It has a rich biodiversity supporting
a large number of species including several endangered species and has the highest concentration of large carnivores;
the Lion, the Leopard and also possibly a single large population of the Marsh Crocodiles in the country. It is the
catchment area of seven rivers namely Hiran, Saraswati, Datardi, Shingoda, Macchundri, Ghodavadi and Raval,
which sustain the economic prosperity of this drought prone region. It is also an important biological research area
with considerable scientific, educational, aesthetic and recreational values. .

2
The Gir Landscape

3
2. AREA AND APPROACH
The Government notified the large geographical extent of Gir as Wildlife sanctuary on 18th September, 1965 in order
to conserve the Asiatic Lions. The Government of Gujarat has declared an area of 1412.1 sq. km the Protected Area
which comprises of 258.7 sq. km as National Park and 1153.4 sq. km as Sanctuary. Besides this, 470.5 sq. km of
forest area forms a buffer zone as Reserved, Protected and Unclassified Forests. Thus, a total area of 1883.6 sq. km
makes up the Gir forest in Junagadh, Gir Somnath and Amreli districts. Owing to its rich and diverse flora and fauna,
Gir significantly has become a very stable ecosystem with tremendous regenerating, self-supporting and sustaining
power. .

Verdant green Gir

4
Seven major rivers originate in Gir National Park & Sanctuary

5
3. PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
3.1. Location, Topography and Geomorphology
Gir lies between 20˚ 40' and 21˚ 50' N latitudes and 70˚ 50' and 71˚ 15' E longitudes. The terrain is mainly undulating
with moderate hills, valleys and plateaus without definite direction of hill ranges. The northern parts are hillier while
the southern part is relatively less hilly, with the general drainage direction being south and southwest.
The hills are of volcanic origin. The main geographical formation is Deccan trap and main rock types are Dolomite
and Basalt. Besides sandstone, limestone and metamorphic schist are also present. Volcanic rock has given rise to
reddish brown sandy loam soil. Soil texture varies from gravelly along the river banks, clay in deep valleys to stony
and murrum of hills. .

Dams in Gir National Park & Sanctuary Drainage in Gir National Park & Sanctuary

6
Vegetation types in Gir National Park & Sanctuary

7
3.2. Climate
Gir has a tropical monsoon climate, with three distinct seasons- Summer, Monsoon and Winter. Late November to
early March is cool and dry, with temperatures dropping to around 10˚ C in midwinter. This is followed by a hot dry
summer with peak temperatures rising to well above 40˚ C. Mid-June to Mid-October is the monsoon period with a
recorded rainfall of 1114 mm in this region during the year 2019. Due to irregular monsoon and uneven distribution of
rainfall, drought years are not uncommon. .
3.3. Water Resources
Gir forms the catchment of seven rivers namely the Hiran, the Saraswati, the Datardi, the Shingoda, the Macchundri,
the Ghodavadi and the Raval. .
The Northern aspect of the Northern ridges forms the catchment of Shetrunji river, which flows outside the Sanctuary
area. All these major rivers of Gir have perennial water supply except during severe drought. .
At the peak of summer, surface water for wild animals is available at about 400 water points. In order to tap water
resources, four dams have been constructed along the Hiran, the Macchundri, the Raval and the Shingoda
respectively. The total catchment of these dams is 820 sq. km, while water from rest of the areas remains untapped.
During droughts, surface water is not available at majority of these points. Water scarcity is a serious problem in
many parts of Gir during droughts. Water availability is achieved through construction of 388 artificial water points
throughout the landscape. .

8
The hill slopes in Gir are dominated by Acacia-Lannea-Boswellia type of vegetation sometimes interspersed with Teak

9
4. FLORA AND FAUNA
4.1. FLORA
The flora of Gir forest of Saurashtra published by the Forest Research Institute (FRI) in 1955 had recorded 403
species of plants which was updated to 606 after identification of new records. .
The vegetation changes along the west to east axis in Gir Protected Area (PA). In eastern Gir, Anogeissus latifolia is
dominant and in western Gir, Tectona grandis is dominant. According to Champion and Seth's revised classification
of forest Types (1968), Gir PA falls under the type 5A/Cla, i.e very dry teak forests. .

Water lily (Nymphaea sp.)

10
Impatiens Barleria sp.

Herbaceous undergrowth dominates the Gir landscape during monsoon A owering climber

11
Qureshi and Shah categorized the vegetation types by using Geographical Information System at coarser resolution
in 2004. The details are given in the table with percentage contribution of vegetation types within Gir PA. .
Vegetation Type Percentage Area
Moist Mixed Forest 12.76
Mixed Forest 16.95
Acacia - Tectona / Anogeissus 13.48
Acacia - Lannea – Boswellia 12.54
Tectona – Acacia – Zizyphus 29.71
Thorn Forest 7.73
Scrubland 4.48
Savanna 1.38
Agriculture/ Open Area 0.29
Wetland 0.69 Cluster gs attract many species of birds and other animals

Herbaceous undergrowth dominates The onset of spring marks owering in Curcuma amada
the Gir landscape during monsoon most plant species

12
 Scaly Breasted Munia Grey headed Canary Flycatcher

Crested Serpent Eagle Brown Fish Owl

Rain Quail Asian Paradise Flycatcher

Crested Tree Swift Indian Peafowl Coppersmith Barbet Vultures

13
4.2. FAUNA
The Gir PA has a diverse assemblage of wildlife harbouring 39 species of mammals, around 300 species of birds, 37
species of reptiles and more than 2000 species of insects. The lesser false vampire bat was recorded for the first time
in 2008 from Gir PA. Alexandrine parakeet was also sighted in Gir PA in 2011. The main scavenger birds include 6
species of vultures. Indian peafowl is found all over the Gir PA. Other avian species categorized by their feeding
guilds inhabiting Gir are listed as follows; .
Frugivorous: Coppersmith Barbet, Plum headed Parakeet, Yellow footed Green Pigeon, etc. .
Carnivorous: Indian Eagle Owl, Mottled Wood Owl, Spotted Owlet, Tawny Eagle, Shikra, Black-winged Kite, Crested
Hawk Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Oriental Honey Buzzard, Osprey, etc. .
Omnivorous: Jungle Crow, Black headed Oriole, Golden Oriole, etc. .
Nectarivorous: Purple Sunbird, Thick-billed Flowerpecker, Pale-billed Flowerpecker, etc. .
Granivorous: Jungle bush Quail, Crested Bunting, Painted Francolin, Spotted Dove, Grey Francolin, etc. .
Insectivorous: Indian Pitta, large number of Flycatchers including Verditer flycatcher, Asian Paradise Flycatcher,
Tickell’s blue Flycatcher, Indian Robin, Hoopoe, Oriental white Eye, Scarlet Minivet, etc. .
Other water birds such as Cormorant, Darter, Asian Open Bill, Grey Heron, Little Egret, Cattle Egret, Yellow-Wattled
Lapwing, Purple Swamphen, etc. are found in and around reservoirs, streams and other water pools inside and
outside the sanctuary. .

Painted Francolin

Indian Pitta Crested Hawk Eagle

14
Small Indian Civet Striped Hyena Jungle Cat

Sambar Nilgai Chital or Spotted Deer

Indian Chameleon Indian Monitor Lizard Tawny Coster

15
In the Gir PA, prominent carnivore species are Asiatic lion and Leopard and other carnivore species are Jungle cat,
Rusty Spotted cat, Striped hyena, Jackal, Grey Mongoose, Ruddy Mongoose, Small Indian civet, Indian Fox and Ratel.
Major wild herbivores in Gir are Chital, Nilgai, Sambar, Hanuman Langur, Wild pig, Four-horned antelope, Chinkara.
The smaller mammals like Porcupine, Black Naped Hare, Indian Pangolin are found in Gir. Marsh crocodiles are found
in the four big reservoirs within the PA as well as in the main rivers and some of their tributaries and constitute the
largest population in a single place in Gir PA. The Star tortoise, monitor lizard and a number of snakes are also
common. Indian rock python is a rare encounter and sometimes met along the stream banks. .
Different floral and faunal bio-diversity reported from Gir PA is shown in the table.

Biodiversity Particulars Number of Species

Trees 108
Shrubs 50
Floral Biodiversity Climbers 86
Herbs 248
Grasses 45 Marsh Crocodile
Sub-total 537
Mammals 39
Reptiles 37
Faunal Biodiversity Birds 300+
Insects >2000
Sub-total 2376
Grand Total 2913 Indian Rock Python

16
Indian Pangolin

17
15
5. CONSERVATION VALUES
In terms of conservation values, Gir
− Is the largest compact tract of dry deciduous forest in the semi-arid western part of the country;
− Is the last home of the Asiatic lion- its last surviving gene pool in nature in the world;
− Is a rich biodiversity area supporting large number of species including several endangered species;
− Has the highest concentration of large carnivores;
− Is the catchment area of seven rivers which sustain the economic prosperity of this drought prone region;
− Ensures the ecological security and environmental improvement for the region, climate, water, salinity prevention
and pollution absorption;
− Is an important biological research area with considerable scientific, educational, aesthetic and recreational value; and
− Is the cradle of culture and religious evolution in Saurashtra.

There are several streams and rivulets that ow through beautiful cascades adding grace to the beauty of Gir

16
18
Adult males usually form coalitions of two or more partners

19
6. THE ASIATIC LION
Gir is well known for the only wild gene pool and the last home of Asiatic lion all over the world. The Asiatic lion was
once widely distributed in Asia covering Mesopotamia, Arabia, Persia and the Indian subcontinent. In the Indian
subcontinent, its range extended across northern India, as far as east up to Bihar, with the Narmada river marking
the southern limit. Before the close of the 19th century, the Asiatic lion had become extinct from its range except Gir.
The animal struggled to survive during one of the most severe droughts between the year of 1901-1905 that also killed
many humans and livestock. The Nawab of Junagadh provided adequate protection to the lions, and their population
increased between the years of 1904-1911. After the death of Nawab, about 12-13 lions were shot annually. From
1911 onwards, hunting was rigidly controlled by the British administration. In 1913, the Chief Forest Officer of
Junagadh reported that there were not more than 20 animals left in the forests. .

20
Before 1936, the population estimates of lion were based on personal knowledge of informants. The first organized
census was conducted in 1936, the population of lion then was 287. The results of population estimation exercise of
lions in the Gir Forest from 1936 to 2020 are as follows: .
1936 The then Junagadh State 287
1950 Mr. Winter Blyth 227
1955 Mr. Winter Blyth 290
1963 Gujarat Forest Department 285
1968 Gujarat Forest Department 177
1974 Gujarat Forest Department 180
1979 Gujarat Forest Department 205
1984 Gujarat Forest Department 239
1990 Gujarat Forest Department 284
1995 Gujarat Forest Department 304
2001 Gujarat Forest Department 327
2005 Gujarat Forest Department 359
2010 Gujarat Forest Department 411
2015 Gujarat Forest Department 523
2020 Gujarat Forest Department 674*
Sub adult males venture out in search of territories and are nomadic for a major part of their lives till they establish their kingdom in an area

21
Age and sex categories of Asiatic lions enumerated during the population estimation exercise is given in the following
table.
Year Adult Sub-adult Cub
Male Female Male Female Unidentified
1995 94 100 - 18 21 71
2001 101 114 20 18 19 55
2005 89 124 - - 72 74
2010 97 162 23 23 29 77
2015 109 201 32 28 13 140
Common Hoopoe
2020 161 260 45 49 22 137

Lion cubs are altricial i.e. they are born with their eyes and eyelids closed and require a lot of care for the rst few weeks after birth

22
Lionesses are fearlessly protective mothers who care for their young till they are capable of hunting

23
The Wildlife Conservation Program for the Asiatic lion was started by the Forest Department in September 1965 with
the declaration of 1265.01 sq. km area as Sanctuary, which was expanded to 1412.1 sq.km. With the implementation
of Wildlife Management and the Gir Development Scheme, the population of lions increased gradually from 177 in
1968 to 523 in 2015. Similarly, the population of major herbivores (Chital, Sambar, Blue bull, Wild pig, Chinkara, Four-
horned Antelope, Blackbuck, Hanuman Langur and Peafowl) has also increased from about 38,221 in 1995 to
1,55,659 in 2019. .

Four-Horned Antelope Hanuman Langur

24
The Maldharis have been living in Gir for generations and nd mention in many folklore

25
7. NESSES AND FOREST SETTLEMENT VILLAGES
7.1. NESS
Maldharis are an integral part of the Gir ecosystem. They have been living in Gir for generations in small hamlets in
the forest area called “nesses”. In the past, plenty of water and fodder was available for their domestic livestock, but
with the passage of time, the increase in livestock increased pressure on forest resources. This resulted not only in
the increase in competition for the limited resources with ungulate populations, but also had an adverse impact on
grass production. This phenomenon caused harm to the health of forest, wildlife and maldharis. Thus, it was prudent
to resettle the maldharis outside the sanctuary for their socio-economic upliftment as well as for the benefit of wildlife.
The Maldharis used to shift their ‘nesses’ every year. In the process of shifting their nesses, maldharis caused
damage to the forest by cutting or lopping of trees for making circular fencing around their homes. Also, some
aggrieved Maldharis started poisoning lions by sprinkling insecticides on the carcass. Gir lion was imperiled and
eventually it became necessary to remove Maldharis from the Gir forest to ensure the very survival and well-being of
the Gir Lions. This became the main plank of the prestigious Gir Lion Project launched by the State Government
in 1972. .

26
The Siddis are tribals of African origin and inhabit the Sasan Gir, Jambur, Sirvan and many other villages near Gir

27
Gir Lion Project which was formally approved by the State Government and the Agriculture, Forest and Cooperation
Department in 1972 resulted in shifting some of the permanent Maldhari families from the sanctuary and resettling
them outside Gir PA by allotting them cultivable and grazing land for their cattle. As per the survey conducted by
Wildlife Division Sasan Gir in 2019, there are 50 nesses and settlement villages consisting of 384 families with 4,912
people and 21,552 livestock in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. The livestock include buffaloes, cattle, sheep, goats and camels.
Four settlement villages do not hold any population of Maldharis. .
Siddi/ Sidi/ Sidhi, Habshi/ Habsi or Badshah are the ethnonyms of an Afro-Indian tribal community who have inhabited
Gir and Gujarat (and also many other states of India) since more than five hundred years. Siddis of Gir become a
cynosure for tourists. Siddis live at Sasan Gir, Jambur, Sirvan and many other villages near Gir. .
7.2 FOREST SETTLEMENT VILLAGES
Gir has 14 forest settlements, covering an area of 5176 hectares. The total human population is about 4500 and the
cattle population is 4200. Settlement land measuring 1867 hectares. has been given on lease to cultivators for
agriculture, initially for 15 years, renewable after expiry of the lease. The Forest Department carries out all works in
these settlements under the Development of Forest Settlement Scheme. .
The condition of most settlers in the Gir Forest is entirely different from the counterparts in the tribal areas in South
Gujarat. Many are economically better off than their non-settlement counterparts in the villages. However, in the name
of forest settler, they want equality with maldharis as far as grazing in the sanctuary area is concerned which has
been dejected. Similarly, they are not content with their present status as forest settlers. It makes them unqualified for
other facilities such as crop loans from the banks as they cannot mortgage land granted to them on lease by the
Forest Department. Owing to resource crisis, development work often suffers. This is the main reason for their
discontentment, leading to demands of converting their land into revenue areas, which is ridden with several problems
pertaining to the management of the Sanctuary and Reserved Forest area. .
28
Gujarat Forest Department is well equipped and has an expertise in dealing with human-wildlife conict situations

29
8. HUMAN - WILDLIFE CONFLICT
Predominant human-wildlife conflict problems are predation on livestock, human injuries and death, crop damage and
loss of property by wild animals. Depredation events on livestock by lion and leopard are quite common in and around
Gir PA. Lion population has increased from 117 (1968) to 523 (2015). The population of wild herbivores has also
increased from 9635 (1973-74) to 1,55,659 (2019). This poses a serious management dilemma as wild animals have
started moving out from the Gir forest in the past two decades into the human-dominated areas. .
Cultivation of sugarcane and mango has increased man-made forest like patches around Gir PA. This has allowed
large felids and other wild animal to disperse out of the Protected Area and find shelter there, leading to increased
interactions with human and cases of conflict. Straying has been defined as “to wander away from home or from the
right way and lost from home”. In other words, the lions and leopards here are not “lost from home” but are searching
for “lost home” which is outside the Gir PA which once existed. .
Eco-development projects aimed to minimise conflict between the Gir management and people. Innovative
participatory approach has been adopted to reduce conflict prevailing in Gir. Ex-gratia compensation for human death
or injury by wildlife and livestock killed by lions and leopards is provided as per the recently updated Government
Regulation (2016). .

30
Many wildlife health interventions are conducted in the eld through expert veterinary teams

31
9. WILDLIFE VETERINARY CARE
Rapid urbanization, industrialization and agriculture expansion cause a direct backlash on wildlife. Lions, leopards
along with other predators and prey species come directly into conflict with the diverse human interests causing
injuries and stress. Such dimensions might be manifold like road and rail kill and/or injury, stuck in a village hutment,
falling into parapet less wells, injuring and/or killing people, interferences in agriculture activities due to respite in a
sugarcane farm and many more. .
There are some natural calamities and phenomena (diseases, flash floods, infights, cub rejection by mother, etc.)
causing such stresses to wild animals. For successful management of the Protected Areas at the landscape level, it is
imperative to control animal mortality/ stress due to such causes. In reflectance, the Gujarat Forest Department has a
long history of wildlife rescue, capture and health management in Gir and Greater Gir with well-equipped Wildlife
Health Centres at Sasan, Jasadhar, Dhari, Jamvala, Amrapur, Simar, Junagadh, Krankach, Ranigala, Vadal, Gebar
and Babarkot under supervision of proficient Veterinary Officers. .
The wildlife rescue initiatives in Gir are paramount and prominent examples as acknowledged by many national and
international institutions. Today when India is struggling hard to save many of its critically endangered species,
mortalities due to such causes could be irreparable and the template of Gir could be a lesson for many of the
Protected Areas across the country. .
Rescue Centres are responsible for different rescue operations, treatments, release operations, health monitoring of
wildlife, wildlife health research, laboratory analyses, investigations and vaccination of domestic cattle, etc. They also
conduct the post-mortem of dead wild animals. Teams are also responsible to extend such services to animals at
Gir Interpretation Zone, Devalia, Ambardi Safari Park and Crocodile Breeding Centre, Sasan. .

32
The rescue centres in the Gir landscape are well equipped and efcient in handling any wildlife health related situations

33
The dispersing lions have been moving out of Gir in search of new territories. Natural dispersal of the lions started
since 1990. At present, lions have scattered to Bhavnagar in the eastern part as well as occupied major parts of
Amreli, Gir Somnath and Junagadh districts. Recently, their movement has been recorded in Chotila, Surendranagar
district. This indicates that the lions are regaining their historically lost terriory. At present, Asiatic Lions roam in more
than 30,000 sq. km of Saurashtra region in Gujarat. .

34
Proactive management measures help the lion populations to thrive in Gir and Greater Gir landscape

35
10. MANAGEMENT IN THE GIR PA
Since the declaration of the area as Gir Sanctuary in 1965, it has been realized that the ecosystem here was
deteriorating very fast. An urgent need was felt to start extensive ecological research work in the Gir forests. In order
to initiate this research, the ‘Gir Lion Project’ was started by BNHS (Bombay Natural History Society), Mumbai, in 1969
with financial assistance from the Smithsonian Institute and Yale University, USA. A research station was established
at Sasan Gir during this period. Many researches and conservation-oriented studies have been carried out by various
institutions and individuals ever since. .
The Gir forests are spread across three districts- Junagadh, Gir Somnath and Amreli, and are divided into two
territorial divisions, East and West with headquarters at Dhari and Junagadh respectively. Gir also has one Wildlife
Division with headquarter at Sasan that aims to make the task of protection and wildlife management more effective. .
Issues and problems related to Gir PA management
Destruction of habitat due to grazing by domestic livestock of Maldharis and in-forest settlers.
Traffic movement on roads passing through PA.
Railway line inside the PA.
Temple complexes and increase in number of people visiting religious places.
Changing land use pattern outside the Protected Area, especially changing crop pattern in agriculture sector.
PA staff and people conflict.
Increase in tourism related problems, development of infrastructure nearby the PA.
Ever growing human and livestock population in nesses, forest settlement villages and peripheral villages.
Setting up of new industries in coastal zones.
Mining/quarrying in coastal areas and peripheral areas.
Fragmentation of connectivity linking the Gir PA to other protected areas owing to biotic pressure.

36
Radio collars have been deployed on 75 Asiatic lions by the Gujarat Forest Department to study their movement and behaviour in the
Gir and Greater Gir landscape
37
To ensure that the PA is managed successfully, the staff has been given the following mandate:
1. Protection against 3. Eco-development works
Poaching Alternate energy sources
Illegal removal of forest produce Fodder plot development
Fire Eco-development of villages
Livestock grazing Training and skill development
Pilgrimage Awareness and education work
Traffic Off-farm income generation activities
Natural calamities Plan for community cooperation for monitoring and
protection of forests
2. Wildlife management
Habitat improvement 4. Eco-tourism
Ensuring regular supply of water throughout the year Management of interpretation zone
Protection from poaching Nature education camps
Prey base development Catering, lodging and boarding facilities at forest
Human wildlife conflict management guest house
Rescue, treatment and rehabilitation of wildlife Management of tourists in tourism zone
Corridor management Orientation program and tourist guide facility
Grassland management Create recreational and educational opportunities
Eco-tone management for tourists
Introducing new technologies and updating it as Vehicle tracking and management
required

38
Construction of water holes and Soil Moisture Conservation works are key for provision of water in the Gir landscape

39
5. Law Enforcement: Popularization of non-conventional sources of energy
Wildlife Crime Cell Employment generation programs
Strengthening of striking force Speed restrictions and installing safety measures for
Vanya Prani Mitra wildlife on the roads which are sensitive with regards
Incentive to informers to movement of wildlife
Anti-poaching activities Reduce speed of trains that commute through Gir
Red alert and Combing operations sanctuary area
Nature education and mass awareness movements
6. Special strategies
through forest youth clubs and other voluntary
Research and Monitoring organizations
Patrolling strategies Human-wildlife conflict mitigation
Network, Modern Communication and Crime Risk Crisis management
Management Village level monitoring committee
Updating risk factors for sensitive charting Launching of individual beneficiary scheme
Wildlife crime prevention strategy
7. Others procedures
Strengthening of protection measures by establishing
check-posts and wireless communication network to
control movement of people and livestock within the
sanctuary by introducing patrolling vehicles and
weapons .
Soil and moisture conservation .
40
The Asiatic lions radio-telemetry project is implemented through competent professionals well versed with the elds of wildlife health, biology
and ecology
41
Efficacy of Gir PA Management.
− Increasing lion population; which was estimated to be 411 in 2010 grew to 523 in 2015.
− Increase in other wild animal population including wild ungulates; e.g. chital population grew from 43,363 in 2010 to
65,524 in 2019.
− Improved ground water recharge with better eco system services.
− Habitat improvement, increase in vegetation cover, grass and browse availability.
− Better wildlife health, wildlife rescue capabilities and better capabilities to address the human-wildlife conflict issues.
− Improved infrastructure and field as well as office equipment.
− Better baseline data for future planning and improvement.
10.1. Present Scenario
10.1.1. Problems identified
1. Dispersion of wildlife from Sanctuary area; wildlife versus human, interface, conflicts.
2. Weed infestation particularly by Lantana camara and Cassia tora.
3. Forest fires.
4. Religious places within the sanctuary with their ambitious expansion plans. Gir PA is under constant pressure by
1,50,000 pilgrims who visit these shrines round the year.
5. Grazing pressure by domestic livestock of maldharis and forest settlers.
6. Scarcity of water in the eastern part of the sanctuary specieally during the peak
summer period.
7. Herbivores damaging agricultural crops in surrounding villages.
8. Wild animal falling and getting trapped in open wells.
9. Traffic on public highways and railway lines passing through the PA. Indian Chameleon

42
The Sinh Sadan Campus at Sasan Gir serves as the Forest Guest House in addition to facilities for conducting seminars, trainings and workshops

43
10.1.2. Mitigation Measures
1. Lions enter human habitation areas beyond the sanctuary limit. However, owing to their increased interaction with
human beings due to population increase, incidents of people disturbing them and lions injuring people have
increased. Initiatives such as mass education through public appeals, nature education camps and extension
activities in rural areas have already been taken up to reduce unpleasant human-wildlife encounters. Payment of
compensation to the people for loss/injury to human life and domestic cattle as per recently updated Government
Regulation (7thJune, 2016). .
2. Every year, weed eradication operations are carried out. However, there is a need to accelerate the work and
hence increased facilities are also proposed. .
3. To minimize the damage from fire, measures like erection of watch towers, preparation of fire lines and engagement
of labourers to control fire during winter and summer has been taken up and is being monitored regularly. A
comprehensive plan for fire control measures has been prepared and submitted to minimize the damage to the Gir
Ecosystem in the future. Cutting, grazing and poaching are being controlled through enforcement of effective
patrolling and checking of the area with the help of improved communication network, necessary vehicles, wireless
sets and weapons. .
4. Sanctuary rules and regulations are being applied at the religious places and steps are being taken to not allow
new rights and privileges. .
5. An area specific fodder development/nutrient enrichment programme is being incorporated in micro plans of
surrounding villages and is proposed to be taken up under the ecodevelopment project. .
6. Construction of Check-dams in the forest areas and water supply in artificial waterholes during critical periods is
being carried out to ensure availability of water. Under the biodiversity conservation plan, emphasis has been laid
on the eastern part of Gir for the construction of artificial waterholes and other water harvesting structures. .

44
Gujarat Forest Department actively supports rural livelihood Parapet walls around wells are constructed in the Asiatic Lion
improvement works by organizing workshops for locals Landsape to prevent accidents or wildlife falling in open wells

45
7. At present the problem of wild ungulates damaging agricultural crops is not very serious. It is generally related to
fodder availability within the sanctuary and surfaces only during scarcity or drought years. Wild pigs have been
causing damage to agricultural crops in surrounding villages. Habitat manipulation works like thinning of dense
woody growth and lopping for browse species are prescribed to increase food availability wherever necessary in the
biodiversity conservation plan. .
8. Traffic on public highways and the railway line disturbs the wildlife. Efforts have been made to minimize the number
of trains and to reduce their speed limit. At present, no train runs through the area after sunset. A proposal to stop
heavy vehicles and to close highways passing through the forest during the night is under consideration. .
9. In wildlife dominated areas, more than twenty five thousand open wells have been secured through construction of
parapet walls. .
10.2. Direct Benefits from the Gir PA.
− Gir is a major eco-tourism centre. Nearly 5.5 lakh eco-tourists visit Gir annually. .
− Dams outside the Gir, built on rivers that originate within the forest like the Shetrunji provide drinking water to places
as far away as Palitana and Bhavnagar. .
− More than 20,000 livestock of the Maldharis and 4912 forest settlers are entirely dependent on the forest. .
− Nearly 1 lakh livestock of peripheral villagers are partially dependent on the forest. .
− From non-reserved vidis, grass is provided to panchayats and panjarapoles. .
− Through the four reservoirs of the Gir, approximately 106 MHM of water is provided annually for irrigation and
drinking. .
− Besides departmental infrastructure facilities for tourism, approximately 100 families earn their livelihoods directly
from the ecotourism industry. .
− Approximately 1 lakh man-days are generated annually through different works being carried out in the Gir
Ecological Unit. .

46
The able and dedicated team of Forest Ofcials ensures the conservation of biodiversity including the lions in the Asiatic Lion Landscape

47
11. ORGANIZATION

CCF WL

48
Nature Education Camps are an important means to impart knowledge and awareness to a myriad of target audience

49
12. NATURE EDUCATION AND TRAINING
It is observed that involving people in wildlife conservation is possible by bringing them in an intimate contact with
nature. Gir is one of the pioneer Protected Areas of India that started environmental education way back in the year
1977-78 to elicit the support of general public. Maldharis, local villagers, students, city-dwellers and professionals are
selected as target audience for Nature Education Camps (NECs). During the past years, efforts were made to create
a support base for Gir conservation. Campers are taken in the forest for trekking through prescribed routes and
adequate information about forest, wildlife and environment is provided through discussions, lectures and
demonstrations, etc. The Forest Department also involves NGOs as resource persons to organize such camps in the
forests. The Forest Department provides all necessary help and support for these works. Sasan Gir, Jamwala and
Jasadhar are permanent sites for the Nature Education Camps. .
There are about 125 forest youth clubs in Junagadh district. Approximately 90 NECs a year are organized for
imparting awareness among participants. Advance trainer’s camps are also conducted with the objective of training
nature conservation enthusiasts to develop capabilities to organize NECs. .

50
Several Livelihood generating workshops for women have been organized by the Gujarat Forest Department

Meetings with Eco-Development Committee members

Awareness programmes for farmers

51
13. ECO-DEVELOPMENT
The India Eco-Development project was implemented by the Ministry of Environment and Forest, Government of India
and various State Forest Departments, including the Gujarat Forest Department. The strategy of Eco-development is
to conserve biodiversity by addressing the impact on the local people of the Protected Areas, it has two main thrusts-
improvement of the PA management and involvement of the local people. Activities like pasture development, soil and
moisture conservation, popularizing non-conventional energy sources, scientific animal husbandry, employment
generation and community development programs had been proposed under the Gir Eco-development Project. This
project was implemented in Eco-development zone covering 57 revenue villages within the distance of 2 km from
boundary of the PA, 14 forest settlement villages and Maldhari nesses. .
The World Bank Funded Biodiversity Conservation and Rural Livelihood Improvement Project (BCRLIP) aimed at
conserving biodiversity in selected landscapes, including protected areas/critical conservation areas, while improving
rural livelihoods through participatory approaches. The Government of India and Gujarat Forest Department supported
BCRLIP Gir as a Learning Centre with very good health care facilities, research data base, library and team of
research scholars from various institutes and universities working in Gir PA. Documentation and dissemination of
different research findings and field experience has been an important aspect of making Gir an exemplary learning
centre. .
Implementation of the Eco-development activities uplifted the wildlife research and monitoring work in Gir PA. Several
untouched fields of research works were taken up during this period. By establishing linkages and by strengthening
existing linkages with research organizations, institutes, universities and research scientists, a wider network for
research support has been shaped. .

52
Wildlife viewing on designated routes of the Gir Jungle Trail is an extremely satisfying and enriching experience

53
14. ECO-TOURISM
Eco tourism is allowed to minimize the negative impacts of tourists on PA and wildlife, to provide economic benefits to
the local communities, to maximize enjoyment of people during their stay through education, interpretation and to
increase their concern for nature and biodiversity conservation. .
Gir has well trained trackers, eco-guides, drivers and staff who manage ecotourism services effectively. Training
programs for guides and staff are regularly conducted for enhancement of communication skills, spoken English,
information of recent developments in Gir including information on biodiversity. .
An information counter is available at Reception
Centre, Sasan-Gir with all communication
facilities which provides general information
related to both lodging and boarding facilities
available in and around Gir, places of visit, etc.
to the tourists. This counter also coordinates
with local operators, hoteliers including tourism
operators outside Gir to gather all the relevant
information. Moreover, high quality information
materials such as brochures, booklets, etc. are
available for general tourist use. A good natural
history film on Gir covering all aspects of the National Park and Sanctuary is available for daily film show at present.
Information material in vernacular language has also been developed. A system of filling up forms by tourists to get
feedback and help in filling the gaps of recent practices and strengthening and improving existing tourism facilities is
also in place. .
54
Aquatic life abounds in Gir National Park and Sanctuary

55
The Sasan Gir tourism headquarter is situated at a distance of 65 km from Junagadh and 45 km from Veraval. Sasan
is well connected to Ahmedabad (a major mega-city of Gujarat) via Junagadh and Rajkot. The nearest Airports from
Sasan Gir are Diu (100 km) and Rajkot (160 km). .
Gir Tourism permit booking is 100% online. For online permit booking, login to www.girlion.gujarat.gov.in

Timing No. of Permits for Jungle Trail

Normal Festival Days /

In Winter In Summer 2nd and 4th
(16th October to 29th (1st March to 15th June) Days Saturday/ Sunday
February)
6:45-9:45 AM 6:45-9:45 AM 50 60 60
8:30-11:30 AM 8:30-11:30 AM 50 60 60
3:00-6:00 PM 3:00-6:00 PM 50 60 60
Total 150 180 180

Tariff for Jungle Trail

Particulars Indian (INR) Foreigner (INR)
Normal Days 800/- 5600/-
Up to 6 Persons
Festival Days / 2nd and 4th 1000/- 7000/-
weekend
*Extra 1700 /- Gypsy charge and 400/- Guide Charge
Camera charge 200/- 1400/-
Black Naped Hare

56
In the past, lion shows used to be arranged for the benefit of tourists visiting Gir. However, this practice was found to
be cumbersome and deleterious for the lions and the staff and has thus been discontinued. At present, Gir Sanctuary
and National Park is not divided into zones and there is no defined tourism zone. To reduce disturbance from tourism
in the main Sanctuary and National Park area, and to facilitate the understanding of tourists about Gir and its wildlife,
Interpretation zones have been designed at Devalia and Ambardi. These comprise of chain-link fenced lion area
which is Gir in a nutshell, covering all habitat types and wildlife of Gir. It also has a feeding cum living cage for
carnivores. The basic aim of creating these facilities is to provide an opportunity to sight lions and other animals in
their natural habitat within a short period of time and to reduce tourism pressure on Gir Sanctuary. .
G.I.Z., Devalia
An interpretation zone has been created at Devalia that covers 412 ha. of area with double-gate entry point. At
present, Spotted Deer, Blue bulls, Wild Pig, Blackbucks, Chinkaras and Sambars along with Lion, Leopard, Jackal
and other reptiles are living in their natural habitat in the zone. A good variety of avifauna is also spotted in this area,
vultures are also found in Devalia. Tourists have to book the permits online or take a permit from reception centre
(subject to availability) at Devalia to visit Gir Interpretation Zone. Forest department provides mini buses AC and non-
AC to take visitors inside the G.I.Z. Gypsy service is available from Sinh Sadan, Sasan Gir. There is also an
Orientation Centre from where visitors can learn about wildlife, their habitat and its ecological importance. .
Tariff for Devalia Bus Safari
(7:30 AM to 11 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM)
Particulars Indian (INR) Foreigner (INR)
Normal Days 150/- 2400/-
Festival Days/ 2nd and 190/- 3000/- Common Kingsher
4th Saturday/ Sunday

57
 Tariff for Devalia Gypsy Safari
(7:00 AM to 11:00AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM)
Particulars Indian Foreigner Timings
(INR) (INR) Morning Evening
Normal Days 800/- 5600/- 7:00-7:55 AM 3:00-3:55 PM
8:00-8:55 AM 4:00-4:55 PM
9:00-9:55 AM 5:00-5:55 PM
10:00-10:55 AM
Festival Days/ 2nd and 1000/- 7000/- Same as normal Days
4th Saturday/ Sunday
*Extra 1500 Gypsy charge and 400 Guide charge

Ambardi Safari Park

The Ambardi Safari Park, 7 kms from Dhari is situated on the bank of Shetrunji river near Ambardi village.
Interpretation zone of Ambardi Safari Park is spread in 400 ha to facilitate the tourists to understand Gir and its
wildlife. It also provides an opportunity to sight lion and other animals in their natural habitat in a short visit. Permits of
Ambardi Safari Park are available at reception centre of Ambardi Safari Park, which is a 100% offline permit system.
Forest Department buses are provided for park visit. Visiting time is from 8 AM to 11 AM and 3 PM to 5 PM every day.
Tariff of Ambardi Safari Park is same as Devalia Safari Park. Ambardi Safari Park does not provide Gypsy Services.

58
 Eco- tourism facilities are well managed and maintained by the Gujarat Forest Department

Wildlife viewing on designated routes of the Gir Jungle Trail is an extremely satisfying and enriching experience

59
IMPORTANT NOTES:
− Gir Jungle Trail remains closed from 16th June to 15th October every year.
− Devalia Safari Park remains closed on every WEDNESDAY.
− E-permits don’t include Camera Fee, etc.
White-eyed
− The ‘e-Permit’ is for the visit to ‘Gir Jungle Trail’ and ‘G.I.Z. Devalia Safari’ only. Buzzard
− For the entry in ‘Gir Jungle Trail’ and ‘G.I.Z. Devalia Safari’
All visitors should upload a copy of their Original Photo Identity Proof.
All visitors should carry their Original Photo Identity Proof (Aadhar Card/ Driving License/ Voter ID Card).
For FOREIGNER, it is compulsory to carry the original passport as the Photo Identity Proof with him/her.
− No entry without Original Photo Identity Proof.
− During the reporting time, the presence of each person mentioned in the ‘e-permit’ is compulsory. .
− One ‘e-Permit’ allows entry of maximum 6 adults+ 1 child to visit 'Gir Jungle Trail' and ‘G.I.Z. Devalia Gypsy Safari’
within the selected time period on a particular route only. .
− The e-Permit doesn’t include the Guide charges (Rs 400/- only) and Gypsy vehicle charges for Gir Jungle trail
(Rs 1700/- only) & G.I.Z. Devalia Gypsy Safari (Rs 1500/- only), which need to be paid separately to the respective
guide and gypsy owners. .
− The authorities of the concerned Forest Department have the full rights to change the visit timings as per the
weather/seasonal conditions or sudden unavoidable circumstances. .
− ‘Gir Jungle Trail’ can be booked only through the online booking system and ‘G.I.Z. Devalia Gypsy Safari can be
booked through online as well as current booking (it will be done if the permits are available). .
− For Gir Jungle Trail and G.I.Z. Devalia Gypsy Safari online booking opens three months prior to the date of visit and
closes down 30 minutes before the date of visit.

60
− If due to technical errors, one does not receive an e-Permit despite a successful financial transaction, a refund will
be made within 20 working days. For such issues, kindly send an email to [email protected] or call on 02877-
285621. .
− Gir Jungle Trail and G.I.Z. Devalia Gypsy Safari visitors are requested to arrive at the respective reception centres
(Boarding Point) at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled time. .
− In case of late reporting at the boarding point, e-Permit will get cancelled and no refund can be claimed. .
− The waiting list will be cleared only as per the cancellation. .
− It is compulsory to keep a local registered Guide in the Gypsy safari vehicle, and allocation of the guide will be done
by the concerned authority. .
− For the Gypsy safari vehicle, each visitor’s name, his/her identity card number and type of identity card should be
clearly mentioned during the online booking. .
− No other person than the registered visitor is allowed in the safari vehicle. .
− Bookings with incomplete or incorrect I.D. proof will be considered invalid. .
No Gir Jungle Trail/ G.I.Z. Devalia Gypsy Safari will be permitted against such bookings. .
No refund will be made for such cases. .
− Safari Route and other information of G.I.Z. Devalia Gypsy Safari will be provided on the basis of permit numbers
during the reporting time at the respective reception centre(s). .
− All disputes and legal matters are subject to the jurisdiction of Junagadh District, Gujarat State only. .
− The services such as the issue of duplicate permit tickets for lost/mutilated/torn permits and bulk booking for more
than 6 people will not be provided. .

61
15. TESTIMONIALS
My visit to Gir National Park and Sanctuary has been a memorable one. The sight of wild animal roaming freely in this
beautiful habitat is a sight to behold. I could feel the majesty and aura of the Asiatic lions, the pride of our nation.
The Government of Gujarat, Forest Officers, Staff and local people especially the Maldhari and Siddi communities
have made untiring efforts to ensure that the rich Flora and Fauna of Gir thrives and is preserved for posterity. I am
confident that the Gir lions shall continue to roar forever. .
Shri Ram Nath Kovind,
Hon’able President of India.

Today, my heart is filled with joy after visiting Sasan Gir National Park. After profoundly evaluating the efforts taken
here for wildlife conservation. I have come to the conclusion that Gir National Park is completely safe and protected.
Especially the modern techniques used for Lion conservation and monitoring their prides is extremely appreciated.
I also had the privilege to experience generosity and humbleness of the Sasan Gir staff during my stay. My wish is
that the humbleness remains continue. I hope this National Park continues to attract those who are interested to know
every little thing related to wildlife. .
Thank you & Best wishes .
Shri Acharya Devvrat
Hon’able Governor of Gujarat

Little Brown Dove

Long-tailed Shrike

62
The fate of the Asiatic Lion in the Gir forest has been a concern of the IUCN SSC Cat Specialist Group since the
chairmanship of Pete Jackson in the 1980s. Then, the Cat SG was worried about the future of the last Asiatic Lions.
Today, we are coming to the Gir forest to learn how to conserve a large, charismatic predator in a human dominated
landscape. We are impressed by the comprehensiveness of the conservation programme, including the habitats, the
prey, the lion , and the people in the near and far vicinity of the Gir forest. And we hope that this outstanding example
of successful conservation may be repeated across the distribution range of Panthera leo leo !
UM Breitenmoser, Co-chair, IUCN SSC Cat Specialist Group
Sam Nicholson, Co-ordinator of the Africa Lion Database
Hans Bauer, University of Oxford

We had a one-night amazing stay. The early morning safari ride is highly recommended. We encountered 2 male
lions out for marking their territories and a lioness lazing around. Food was also amazing. The rooms are spacious,
luxurious, well decorated and clean. .
Justice Vikram Nath
Hon’able Chief Justice, Gujarat High Court

Our stay here was pleasant and comfortable. Meals were very good like home cooked food. The safari was very
enjoyable and we saw majestic lion as well as several other animal and birds. It was very informative and educational
too. And we got an insight of the amount of labour that goes into managing the forest and taking care of the animals.
Overall, every member thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The staff was very warm and courteous. .
Justice Harola Desai
Judge, High Court of Gujarat

63
This is my 6th or 7th visit to this wonderful forest. What to say about the different Jungle! Mornings are wonderful in
the jungle and feel that when such fresh air would be inhaled again. The lions, lioness and cute cubs are compelling
me and my family to visit it again and again! The system developed of communication between the personnel among
forest department is unbelievable! ‘Sinh-Sadan’ is exceptionally maintained. Very clean and hygienically maintained.
Staff is very courteous. .
Shri A. J. Desai
High Court of Gujarat

Many thanks for making my visit memorable and comfortable. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and deeply
appreciate the efforts of the staff at the Park/ sanctuary, and at the circuit house. Best wishes. .
Vice Admiral Shri Girish Luthra
Commander in Chief,
Western Naval Command, Indian Navy

Indian Roller

Common Grey
Mongoose

64
Indian Leopard

65
16. DOS AND DON’
TS
Dos Don’ts
Make sure you have obtained a valid entry permit. Do not litter.
Be punctual for the activities. Do not feed animals.
Respect animals and their habitat. Do not carry pets.
Observe in silence. Do not blow horn.
Appreciate the colours and sounds of nature. Do not light any kind of fire.
Carry a valid identity card issued by a Government Do not take away flora and fauna in the form of
Agency. cuttings, fruits, flowers, seeds or roots.
Wear clothes that blend in with the forest landscape. Do not carry any type of plastic bags inside the
Take pictures, but without disturbing wildlife. sanctuary.
Keep a safe distance from wild animals. No trespassing in forest area.
Drive slowly and carefully. Wild animals have the first Do not alight from the vehicle.
right of way. Do not use spotlights or search lights.
Observe the sanctity of holy sites, respect local Do not disturb or tease animals.
customs. Avoid playing any kind of musical instruments or
Observe the prescribed route and time limit. music systems.
Obey the laws, rules and regulations of the sanctuary. Smoking and consumption of liquor are strictly
prohibited.
Do not carry weapons or explosives inside the
sanctuary.
Do not be disappointed if you don’t see a big cat- there
are many other interesting creatures and plants to be
seen and cherished.
66
International recognition of Gujarat Forest Department for
promoting people’s participation in conservation

67
68
Nature works in astounding ways!
A curious case of a lioness fostering a leopard cub was recorded in 2019. The leopard cub became
a part of the lion pride and was seen playing with lion cubs like its own siblings. This association
continued for 45 days till the leopard cub died due to internal ailments.

Gir Welfare Fund, Sasan-Gir

By purchasing this book, you are contributing to the cause of biodiversity conservation and lauding
the tireless efforts of the forest staff working in the Asiatic Lion Landscape. Thank you!