SGNP awaits Gujarat Sakkarbaug zoo’s nod for pair of lions

HE ASIAN AGE. | NEHA L.M. TRIPATHI

Published : Mar 30, 2017, 2:50 am IST

Gujarat zoo officials say the proposal has to be approved by chief minister Vijay Rupani.

 At present, the SGNP houses three Asiatic lions of which siblings Jespa and Gopa are young, while the third lion Ravindra is old.

Mumbai: The Sanjay Gandhi National Park, while holding its breath to welcome a pair of lions from the Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden, sent a reminder to the latter for the same on Wednesday. While SGNP has identified to give the cats to Sakkarbaug Zoo, it is yet to receive a confirmation in return for the same from the latter.
The Gujarat forest had agreed to the exchange program in return for a pair of rusty spotted cats (schedule I species found only in Maharashtra).
Shailesh Deore, Range Forest Officer of SGNP said, “The reminder was sent to the zoo authorities on Wednesday since we did not get an update to our proposal from them.” According to Sakkarbaug officials, the proposal has been forwarded to the to government as it has to be approved by the chief minister. S.J. Pandit, Zoo Director, Sakkarbaug zoo said, “The proposal is under consideration.”
After a response from Sakkaebaug, both the authorities will be visiting each other after which the animals to be exchanged will be finalised according to the requirement.
Authorities from SGNP had sent proposal to the Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden in February this year at Junagadh, Gujarat. According to communications between the two authorities, Sakkarbaug zoo will be sending a pair of Asiatic lions to SGNP and the SGNP will be giving away a pair of rusty spotted cats. “We are in talks with the senior officials at the zoo who are positive of the exchange program. If things go as planned then we will have the lions in SGNP within a year,” said a source.
At present, the SGNP houses three Asiatic lions of which siblings Jespa and Gopa are young, while the third lion Ravindra is old. The park authorities want to increase the captive population of the Asiatic lions for lion safari. Since the lions already in SGNP are related by blood, inbreeding cannot be done as it could lead to genetic diseases.
http://www.asianage.com/metros/mumbai/300317/sgnp-awaits-gujarat-sakkarbaug-zoos-nod-for-pair-of-lions.html

Lion reserve proposal gathering dust since 2006

Vijaysinh Parmar | TNN | Mar 30, 2017, 04.00 AM ISTRajkot: Gujarat's pride, Asiatic lions, seems to have been left to fend for themselves in greater Gir area as the state government is sitting on a crucial proposal to give more protection to the endangered species outside Gir Wildlife Sanctuary since last 11 years.

In April 2005, Gujarat government had floated a proposal to declare 30,054 hectare area, which included government waste land, forest land in villages of Palitana, Mahuva, Talaja of Bhavnagar and some parts of Amreli as 'Sir Dharamkumarsinhji Wildlife Sanctuary'. However, in 2006, the proposal was modified and it was decided to declare the area as a 'conservation reserve' instead of sanctuary.

The area identified by the government for the 'conservation reserve' was based on its ecological, fauna, floral, gemological nature and zoological significance for the purpose of protection, propagation and developing wildlife and its environment. It was to be the lion's new permanent corridor.


In 2010, a total of 10,952 hectare (109 sq km) area in Savarkundla, Palitana, Mahuva and Talaja was marked as 'conservation reserve'. Forest department gave all details about the village-wise, taluka-wise, details of government waste land as well as forest land which fall under the 'conservation reserve' to the concerned government department.

"The plan was to provide safe cover to lions that are moving outside the Gir Sanctuary and maintain a safe corridor for the big cat's movement. The proposed conservation reserve was a link for the lion's corridor from Gir east to Rangala and other parts of Bhavnagar district, where lions have started living permanently. As human-wildlife conflicts are on rise, it is high time that the government takes a decision for long-term conservation of lions," said a senior forest officer.

When inquired about the status of lion 'conservation reserve', principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), G K Sinha said that the forest department had sent the proposal to government, where the matter was pending for final approval.

"If government delays decision, the haphazard development in and around the proposed conservation reserve will destroy the purpose of the entire proposal. The windmill project close to this proposed 'conservation reserve' is a prime example of it," said another forest official.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/rajkot/lion-reserve-proposal-gathering-dust-since-2006/articleshow/57901930.cms

How to vacation in the wild for less than Rs 50,000 this summer

By

Hiral Thanawala

, ET Bureau|

Mar 27, 2017, 06.30 AM IST

Other than lions, Gir is also famous for the 4-horned antelope. Jackals, striped hyenas and the Indian fox can also be seen.

Tax planning:

How to complete all tax work before March 31

The summer vacations are just weeks away. If a wildlife safari or some serious bird-watching is on your agenda, we present four options that are worth a dekko for under Rs 50,000 for a family of three, excluding airfare and train fare.

GIR NATIONAL PARK
Other than lions, Gir is also famous for the four-horned antelope. Jackals, striped hyenas and the Indian fox can also be seen. The Nalsarovar lake is ideal for spotting birds.

Getting there
• Nearest airport is Rajkot, 165 km away.
• Nearest railway station is Junagadh, 70 km away.

Safari timings
6 am to 9 am, 9 am to 12 noon and 3 pm to 6 pm.

Fees and charges for 2 adults and 1 child (age 10 years). 2) Accomodation for 3 nights and 4 days (in 3 star hotel / resort / homestay). 3) Cost for 5 safaris during the stay.

Best time to visit
October to mid-June (park closed during monsoon).

Things to carry
ID proof, camouflage or light coloured clothing, binoculars, camera, your copy of Birds of India, drinking water and cap.

KABINI NATIONAL PARK
Located near Mysore, this forest is home to rare black panthers, leopards, tigers, Indian bison, mugger crocodiles, Indian rock python, elephants and more.

Fees and charges for 2 adults and 1 child (age 10 years). 2) Accomodation for 3 nights and 4 days (in 3 star hotel / resort / homestay). 3) Cost for 5 safaris during the stay.

Getting there
• Nearest airport is Bengaluru, 245 km away. • Nearest station is Mysore, 76 km away.

Safari timings
6.30 am to 9 am and 3.30 pm to 6 pm.

Best time to visit
October to mid-June.

Things to carry
ID proof, camouflage or light coloured clothing, binoculars, camera, drinking water and cap

LATPANCHAR
A part of the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary in Darjeeling, Latpanchar plays host to 36 species of animals and over 240 species of birds. The area also includes cinchona plantations, the Ahal Dara View Point, Namthing Lake, Sarsari Dara, Sitong Orange Orchard, etc.

Getting there
• Nearest airport is Bagdogra, 52 km away. • Nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), 44 km away.

Best time to visit October to May.
Things to carry ID proof, camouflage or light coloured clothing, binoculars, camera, water, warm clothes and a cap.

Fees and charges for 2 adults and 1 child (age 10 years). 2) Accomodation for 3 nights and 4 days (in 3 star hotel / resort / homestay). 3) Cost for 5 safaris during the stay.

HEMIS NATIONAL PARK
Located in Ladakh, this is the place to go to if you want to spot the elusive snow leopard. Other inhabitants include the Asiatic ibex, Tibetan wolf, the Eurasian brown bear and the red fox. For bird watchers, the golden eagle, Himalayan griffon vulture, Tibetan snow finch, robin accentor, the Himalayan snowcock and red-billed chough are what you need to look out for.

There are no hotels around the park. Tents and dormitories are available in the adjoining villages of Rumbak, Kaya, Sku, Shingo, Urutse and Chilling. The Hemis Monastery also provides accommodation facility.

1) Fees and charges for 2 adults and 1 child (age 15 years). 2) Cost includes local sightseeing and easy trekking /trails in Hemis to explore wildlife for 6 nights and 7 days.

Getting there
• Nearest airport is Leh, 50 km away. • Nearest railway station is Jammu, 250 km away.

Best time to visit
May to September.

Things to carry
Trekking bag, ID proof, walking stick, hiking shoes, woollens, water, juices, snacks, torch, medical kit, a good compass, a spare set of clothes, binoculars and camera. 

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/wealth/spend/how-to-vacation-in-the-wild-for-less-than-rs-50000-this-summer/articleshow/57825744.cms

No cause for pride: A success story goes awry

• Editorial | New Delhi
  March 26, 2017 | 01:59 AM
  

  Gir Forest (PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES)
  The lions of the Gir forest, the only surviving habitat of the Asiatic species, have long been a matter for parochial pride among the people of Gujarat; their netas in particular. They had joined forces to script a creditable conservation story that saw the once-dwindling population increase to an impressive 503 cats when the last census was conducted in 2015. Sadly that success story seems to have “gone to the head”, for no fewer than 160 lions have died in the last couple of years. What is “telling” is that though the authorities had made much of the numbers increasing, it required RTI action to extract the confession about the 160 deaths: 94 between April 2015 and March 2016, another 67 thereafter. Of particular concern is that a large number of deaths were the result of animals coming in contact with the electrified fences agriculturists have raised to protect their crops, or after falling into uncovered wells ~ which conservationists contend are deliberate death-traps. It was a campaign against electrified fencing and open wells some years back that had helped reduce the “threat” to the cats, now the protection-effort seems to have lost impetus. Cases of lions being hit by trains or motor vehicles on roads running through the forest have also taken their toll.
  What is also evident is that the Gir’s “protected sanctuary zone” is unable to sustain the present populace and the lions have to look beyond it for prey upon which to feed, and that has aggravated the man-animal conflict. The local authorities are not in favour of expanding the sanctuary zone as that would be unacceptable to people living there. Further complicating the “stand-off” is the state government’s reluctance to accept the proposal ~ endorsed by international agencies ~ to re-locate some lions to the Kuno-Palpur forest in Madhya Pradesh, which expert studies have found suitable for “creating” a second habitat which might also improve the genetic strain. Though the central government and the apex court have supported re-location, the Gujarat authorities keep raising objection. A section of critics allege that when he was chief minister in Gandhinagar, Mr Narendra Modi had been in the forefront of the resistance to re-location: now that he calls the “national shots” will he look beyond narrow boundaries to reinvigorate the lion population? Surely 160 lion deaths should serve as shock therapy.
  http://www.thestatesman.com/opinion/no-cause-for-pride-a-success-story-goes-awry-1490473696.html
  

International Day of Forests 2017: 5 Indian national parks that must be on your travel to-do list

The International Day of Forests, also known as the World Forestry Day, is celebrated on March 21 to raise awareness about conservation of forests.

• Fukres
• Mar 21, 2017
  
  
  
  
  March 21 marks the International Day of Forests. The objective of this day is to raise awareness about conservation of forests. On this day, countries are encouraged to promote the growth and plantation of trees and to celebrate and protect greenery around them. Not only is greenery good for the environment, but it is also aesthetically pleasing. Green landscapes, which are now sadly sustaining because of authorities implementing laws for their protection, constitute some of the most picturesque views for your travelgram. So, here are some of the most beautiful national parks in India for you to book as your next travel destination, which also have an enriching story about them.
  Sundarban National Park
   Located in the eastern state of West Bengal, the Sundarbans are home to the majestic Bengal Tiger. The national park covers the world’s largest delta and has also been named a UNESCO world heritage site. The site is also a Tiger Reserve and a Biosphere Reserve.
  Kaziranga National Park
  The Kaziranga National Park lies in the state of Assam and is best known for housing the largest population the Indian one-horned Rhinoceros and Tigers in the whole world. It is a World Heritage Site and was also named a Tiger Reserve in the year 2006.
  Sasan Gir National Park
  
  Situated in Gujarat, Gir remains to be the only natural habitat of the dying species, Asiatic Lion. Because of this, it is one of the most protected areas in Asia. The Gir Forest National Park is also known for hosting a diverse species of flora and fauna.
  Silent Valley National Park
  The Silent Valley National Park in Kerala is of both ecological and religious significance. Spread across a massive 236.74 square kilometres, the place is believed to be one of the resting spots for the Pandavas. The site has been mentioned in the Hindu mythology of Mahabharata as well.
  Valley of Flowers National Park
  
  Perhaps every Himalayan lover’s dream destination, the Valley of Flowers of Uttarakhand is a heavenly sight to behold. When in season, the entire valley blossoms with hundreds of different coloured flower blooms. It is also a host to several rare and endangered animals aside from the variety of species.
  http://www.inuth.com/lifestyle/travel/international-day-of-forests-2017-5-indian-national-parks-that-must-be-on-your-travel-to-do-list/
  

160 lions die in Gir in 2 yrs

Posted at: Mar 22, 2017, 1:17 AM; last updated: Mar 22, 2017, 1:01 PM (IST)

25 deaths unnatural

• Ninety-five Asiatic lions died between April 2015 and March 2016. Twenty-five of these died unnaturally
• Another 67 lions died from April last year to date

Manas Dasgupta

Ahmedabad, March 21

The Gujarat Forest Department has admitted that more than 160 Asiatic lions have died in the Gir forest in the last two years since the 2015 census put their population at record 523. This included death of 95 lions from April 2015 to March 2016, and another 67 from April last year to date. What was more shocking of the 95 deaths recorded last year was that 25 died unnaturally, including of electrocution by coming in contact with live wires put up by farmers to save their crops from herbivorous animals, and falling into wells left open by farmers in their fields, the department revealed in a reply to a query under the RTI Act. (Follow The Tribune on Facebook; and Twitter @thetribunechd) Almost all unnatural deaths were recorded in the areas outside the protected sanctuary zone in the periphery of the villages falling within Gir forest as under pressure of increasing population and shortage of prey, a number of Asiatic lions fanned outside the sanctuary zone and into the habituated villages. The wildlife experts said some of the carcasses of the lions were found in such highly decomposed conditions that it was even difficult to ascertain the exact causes of their death. The high death rate of the lions concerns environmentalists who have urged the state government to expand the protected zone to cover the wastelands and some other areas in the periphery, particularly because the state government was opposed to the idea of shifting a few species to Kuno-Palpur forests in neighbouring Madhya Pradesh to create a second home for the Asiatic lions. Meanwhile, a man-eater sloth bear, which had strayed out of the forest areas in Danta in Banaskantha district in north Gujarat and killed three persons besides injuring four others, was killed by sharp-shooters in a joint operation by the foresters from Danta, Gir Sanctuary and even Delhi who were rushed to the area this afternoon after the locals raised the alarm.
http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/160-lions-die-in-gir-in-2-yrs/380445.html

Kuno not needed; Gujarat has achieved its goals, hints paper

Himanshu Kaushik | TNN | Updated: Mar 18, 2017, 07.05 AM ISTAHMEDABAD: The 12-member expert committee set up by the Supreme Court to oversee transalocation of lion from Gir to Kuno-Palpur in Madhya Pradesh, has stated that Kuno Palpur was suitable for translocation.

However, a research paper published by National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) member HS Singh seems to imply that Kuno site had become unnecessary as its objectives had been achieved by Gujarat.

Singh's research paper says that the Kuno site was designed to increase the lion population beyond 500 and to improve the position of Asiatic Lions from 'Critically Endangered' to 'Endangered' in the IUCN Red List.

Both these objectives that were planned two decades back have already been achieved by Gujarat through its conservation practices.

The research paper further states that the population of lion is growing only because the people of Gujarat take pride in them and feel that they own these lions. Conservation of wildlife is deep-rooted in the culture and tradition of Saurashtra, the paper says.

However, despite their growing population, the lions face threat from development of industries and ports, mining activities, and rail and high-speed roads in the coastal areas. The increased frequency and speed of goods trains on Pivavav-Rajula line is a new threat as 10 lions were killed during 2013-15.


The paper also states that industrial and mining activities around Veraval coast had forced the lions out of the area.

Pipavav port and related activities near Kaj wetlands in Kodinar taluka are a source of disturbance to a group of lions settled there. Further, change in land-use pattern and disappearance of wastelands and community lands are other problems affecting the lions.

Latest Comment

The project in Kuno is not for conservation but MPS tourismHimanshu Kaushik

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced conversion of six state roads as National Highways. Of these new highways, the Una-Chotila highway passes close to the sanctuary. The research papers states that the road network, and widening and converting some of them as high-speed roads are a matter of concern for lion conservationists.

People around the Gir forests and some of the satellite areas are aware of the habits of the lions and have developed an understanding to live with them. Villagers in some of the new satellite areas have little understanding of the behaviour of the lion. They need to be educated, the paper says.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/kuno-not-needed-gujarat-has-achieved-its-goals-hints-paper/articleshow/57696905.cms

Tourists flock to get glimpse of white 'Albino Deer' in Gir

By: ANI
 Junagadh (Gujarat), Mar 17 (ANI): Though Gujarat's Gir Forest is world-known for rearing Asiatic Lion, this time the visitors are flocking to get a glimpse of two white-coloured 'albino deer' that have been spotted in the forest premises. The two fawns are progeny of Sambar breed. Albino is a genetic disorder under which the pigments of skin, hair and eyes change within a species.
http://indiablooms.com/ibns_new/video-details/N/89119/tourists-flock-to-get-glimpse-of-white-albino-deer-in-gir.html

Albino Deer draws attraction at Gujarat’s Gir

Mar 17, 2017 01:47 IST

Though Gujarat’s Gir Forest is world-known for rearing Asiatic Lion, this time the visitors are flocking to get a glimpse of two white-coloured ‘albino deer’ that have been spotted in the forest premises. The two fawns are progeny of Sambar breed. Albino is a genetic disorder under which the pigments of skin, hair and eyes change within a species. (ANI)

Source & Video; http://www.hindustantimes.com/videos/india-news/albino-deer-draws-attraction-at-gujarat-s-gir/video-TUhMJVCpWZda7DpDZuZ9hM.html

Asiatic lion population in Gir forests up fourfold in last five decades: study

The number of Asiatic lions in and around Gujarat’s Gir forests has increased in the last five decades, says an analysis published in India-based Current Science journal

Mayank Aggarwal

Asiatic lions, which evolved in Europe, are believed to have moved South over millennia, and now survive only in Gujarat in India. Photo: Reuters

New Delhi: The lion population in and around the Gir forest in Gujarat has witnessed a fourfold increase in the five decades till 2015, according to a report published in scientific journal Current Science last week. That’s the good news.
The not-so-good news, the report concludes, is that massive infrastructure projects such as railways and high-speed road corridors, as well as industrial, port and mining activities, are beginning to affect the only habitat of the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) and are a major cause of concern for their future.
“During the last five decades (1965–2015), the approach for the Asiatic lion’s conservation is one of the best efforts in the world. Unlike other super predators, the number of lions has increased fourfold and (that of) wild ungulates by over thirteen-fold in the Gir forest,” said the analysis authored by H.S. Singh.
“Expansion and consolidation of the Gir protected area, habitat of the Asiatic lion, and response of prey and predator to the management and dispersion trend of lions outside the Gir forests are interesting and noteworthy. The distribution range of lions has also expanded to a large landscape in four districts in the state,” the report said.
In May 2015, the Gujarat government released its latest lion census figures, which said Gir’s Asiatic lion population had grown around 27%, from 411 in 2010 to 523 in 2015.
Asiatic lions, found only in Gujarat, have been classified as an endangered species.
Also Read | No second home for lions even as numbers grow
The study explained that the Gir wildlife sanctuary, the first protected area (PA) in Gujarat, was established in 1965 to conserve the Asiatic lion. Subsequently, the core area of the sanctuary was declared a national park, while the sanctuary was expanded to cover peripheral forests. The adjoining area, an integral part of the Gir forest in Amreli district, was declared as the Pania sanctuary. The wastelands and community lands around Gir were notified as protected forests. A patch of forest near Gir in Mitiyala, historically known as a lion habitat, was declared a sanctuary for further consolidation of its habitat. In 2007, Girnar, a lion satellite area, was also declared as a sanctuary. Five PAs—Gir national park, Gir sanctuary, Pania sanctuary, Mitiyala sanctuary and Girnar sanctuary—covering 1,621 sq. km, are presently managed as the Asiatic lion’s habitat.
“In two decades (1995-2015), more than 40% of the total number of lions was spotted outside the Gir landscape. The prey population, predation behaviour of the lion and acceptance of the lion as an honourable animal by the villagers indicate that the present trend may continue in the near future as well,” the study added.
However, it expressed concern at the massive pace of infrastructure development.
“The development of industries and ports, mining activities, rails and high-speed roads in the coastal area have already impacted the lions. The increased frequency and speed of goods trains in Pipavav-Rajula line has posed a new threat as 10 lions were killed during 2013-15,” it noted.
“The change in land-use pattern and disappearance of wastelands and community lands are other issues of concern,” the analysis added.
“The increasing population of lions will not sustain in Gujarat in coming years. Not just lion-human conflicts but other problems too, like unnatural deaths and genetic disorders, will surface. Keeping lions only in Gujarat is also against international norms,” said Ajay Dubey, secretary of non-governmental organization Prayatna, which has long campaigned for moving lions out of Gujarat.
The Supreme Court, in an April 2013 order, directed the Union environment ministry to shift some of Gujarat’s lions to the Kuno wildlife sanctuary in neighbouring Madhya Pradesh. But the order has not been implemented so far.
http://www.livemint.com/Politics/3kaVvzKF4dOoebk9hTQcpK/Number-of-Asiatic-lions-in-Gir-region-up-fourfold-in-last-fi.html

FSL report awaited in lion’s death

• TOI
• Rajkot
• Fri,17 Mar 2017
  

  Summary: The forest department has sent viscera to FSL in Junagadh to ascertain the exact cause of death. Rajkot: The forest department is awaiting the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report in connection with the mysterious death of 10-year-old Asiatic lion in Ghantvad round of Jamwala forest range in Gir-West division 11 March.It was suspected that the lion may have got electrocuted. But there were some burn marks on lion's tail which raised suspicion of electrocution," said Dr. Pradeep Singh, deputy conservator of forest, Gir-West division, Junagadh.Wildlife conservationists are concerned about the unnatural deaths of lions around Gir wildlife Sanctuary. We have scanned the nearby area to find out farms having electric fencing but we did not get any. The area from where lion was found dead is also a hub of illegal mining.

  Rajkot: The forest department is awaiting the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) report in connection with the mysterious death of 10-year-old Asiatic lion in Ghantvad round of Jamwala forest range in Gir-West division 11 March.It was suspected that the lion may have got electrocuted. The forest department has sent viscera to FSL in Junagadh to ascertain the exact cause of death. "I visited the location where lion was found dead.
  
  It was living in this habitat since long and pug marks were also spotted. We have scanned the nearby area to find out farms having electric fencing but we did not get any. But there were some burn marks on lion's tail which raised suspicion of electrocution," said Dr.
  
  Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/rajkot/fsl-report-awaited-in-lions-death/articleshow/57675103.cms

25 lions died of unnatural causes in a year after census

• TOI
• Ahmedabad
• Wed,15 Mar 2017
  

  Summary: JUNAGADH:The number of Asiatic lions that have died due to unnatural causes like electrocution and drowning in wells has shot up significantly in Saurashtra.The damning numbers have been revealed in official data procured using Right to Information (RTI) tool.The data shows that of the 95 lions that died between April 2015 and March 2016, 25 died of unnatural causes. According to sources in the forest department, at least 67 lions have died between April 2016 and March 2017, which means that after the census, 170 lions have died in Saurashtra. What is worrisome is that all the 25 unnatural deaths happened on the fringes of Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and outside the protected areas. In the same period in 2014-2015, 13 lions had died of such causes. Moreover, these deaths have come in the period after the lion census conducted in 2015 revealed that there 523 Asiatic lions in four districts of Saurashtra.

  JUNAGADH:The number of Asiatic lions that have died due to unnatural causes like electrocution and drowning in wells has shot up significantly in Saurashtra.The damning numbers have been revealed in official data procured using Right to Information (RTI) tool.The data shows that of the 95 lions that died between April 2015 and March 2016, 25 died of unnatural causes. Lion experts and wild life activists have expressed concern over the steep increase. In the same period in 2014-2015, 13 lions had died of such causes.
  
  Moreover, these deaths have come in the period after the lion census conducted in 2015 revealed that there 523 Asiatic lions in four districts of Saurashtra. The RTI was filed by former Army jawan-turned-environment crusader Bhagvan Solanki of Lodhva village of Gir-Somnath district. What is worrisome is that all the 25 unnatural deaths happened on the fringes of Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and outside the protected areas.
  
  Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/25-lions-died-of-unnatural-causes-in-a-year-after-census/articleshow/57641431.cms

RTI exposes illegal mining around Gir

Vijaysinh Parmar | TNN | Updated: Mar 16, 2017, 11.37 AM IST

Environmental activists allege that government has given in to illegal miners who have high business stakes ar... Read More

KODINAR: Illegal miners seem to have got a complete free hand in digging near the Asiatic lions' last abode — Gir Wildlife Sanctuary. If data revealed under the RTI Act is any indication, the Supreme Court order banning mining, both legal and illegal in a 10km periphery around the sanctuary pending clearance of final eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) proposal, has been flagrantly violated.

Between April 2016 and February 2017, the geology and mining department had lodged 22 FIRs for illegal mining in the close vicinity of the sanctuary. "The estimated value of illegal mining in these 22 cases was pegged at Rs 11.29 crore. But this is just the tip of an iceberg as illegal mining is rampant around Gir Sanctuary and adversely affecting forest and wildlife,'' said Balu Socha, an environmental activist based in Kodinar, who had sought the information.

Earlier, the Centre had notified an area up to 17.9km from the boundary of the Mitiyala Wildlife Sanctuary, 16.3km from the boundary of the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and up to 14.98km from the Paniya Wildlife Sanctuary. Now, the ESZ covers only 207 sq km of 114 villages in nine talukas covering three districts as against the original 3,328.8139 sq km extending to around 291 villages. Environmental activists alleged that government has given in to illegal miners who have high business stakes around the Gir Sanctuary.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/rajkot/rti-exposes-illegal-mining-around-gir/articleshow/57655443.cms

Lion found dead in Gir West

TNN | Updated: Mar 15, 2017, 12.36 PM IST

RAJKOT: Mystery shrouds the death of a 10-year-old lion whose body was found in Ghantvad round of Jamwala Forest Range in Gir-West division three days ago.

Pradeep Singh, deputy conservator of forest, Gir west, said, "The lion was aged between nine years old and 12 years old. We have sent the viscera for forensic analysis. We are also investigating circumstantial evidence to ascertain the cause of death. There were no external injuries on the lion's body but we are investigating all aspects."

Meanwhile, there is little headway in the electrocution of the six-year-old lioness that was pregnant with two cubs in February. The lioness was dumped in Hiran River, reportedly to destroy evidence, after it was electrocuted in a farm fencing.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/rajkot/lion-found-dead-in-gir-west/articleshow/57636093.cms

25 lions died of unnatural causes in a year after census

Vijaysinh Parmar | TNN | Updated: Mar 15, 2017, 09.11 AM IST

• The RTI was filed by former Army jawan-turned-environment crusader Bhagvan SolankiJUNAGADH:The number of Asiatic lions that have died due to unnatural causes like electrocution and drowning in wells has shot up significantly in Saurashtra.
• 25 lions have died of unnatural causes in a year in Saurashtra
• All the 25 unnatural deaths happened on the fringes of Gir Wildlife Sanctuary
  
  The damning numbers have been revealed in official data procured using Right to Information (RTI) tool.The data shows that of the 95 lions that died between April 2015 and March 2016, 25 died of unnatural causes. Lion experts and wild life activists have expressed concern over the steep increase. In the same period in 2014-2015, 13 lions had died of such causes. Moreover, these deaths have come in the period after the lion census conducted in 2015 revealed that there 523 Asiatic lions in four districts of Saurashtra. The RTI was filed by former Army jawan-turned-environment crusader Bhagvan Solanki of Lodhva village of Gir-Somnath district. What is worrisome is that all the 25 unnatural deaths happened on the fringes of Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and outside the protected areas. This shows how vulnerable the lions are outside Gir," Army jawan-turned-environment crusader Bhagvan Solanki of Lodhva village of Gir-Somnath district said.

In some cases, the exact cause of unnatural deaths could not even be ascertained as the carcasses were completely decomposed. According to sources in the forest department, at least 67 lions have died between April 2016 and March 2017, which means that after the census, 170 lions have died in Saurashtra.

"The numbers are alarming and government must immediately declare government wasteland, vidis (government grassland) and reserve forests outside Gir sanctuary as protected areas to save lions," said Biren Padhya, an activist who has filed multiple PILs in Gujarat high court for forests and lions' protection
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/25-lions-died-of-unnatural-causes-in-a-year-after-census/articleshow/57641431.cms

No Centre grants for Gir Lion project since two years, says Gujarat govt

A lioness with her cubs in Gir forest.(Representative photo)

Himanshu Kaushik | TNN | Mar 14, 2017, 07.08 PM IST7, 07.08 PM IST

AHMEDABAD: The state government has admitted that the central government has since January 2015 not given any grants for the Gir Lion project in the state.

The state government in reply to the question of Prantij MLA Mahendrasinh Bariya said that in the last two years since December 31, 2015, the central government has not allocated any funds for the Gir Lion projects.

However, the government in another reply to UNA MLA Punja Vansh claimed that the government in the financial year has allocated 21.88 crore while in 2015-16 it has allocated only 14.29 crore. The government claimed that in 2014-15 some 60 works in Gir-east and west were completed. While the same in 2015-16 it was only 44 works.

Sources in the forest department refusing to be quoted said Greater Gir remains the last habitat of Asiatic lions on earth, and it seems to have no place in the Centre's Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH). Earlier, the UPA government had cold shouldered the Rs 234-crore proposal for long-term lion conservation, claiming so much money cannot be allocated for a single species. After Gujarat government whittled down requirements and sent a revised proposal for Rs 150 crore, the NDA government has refused to grant any money at all, citing lack of funds.

Officials admitted that the project proposal with estimated cost of Rs 150 crore had been submitted by the Gujarat government in 2014 for financial assistance under Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats - a centrally sponsored scheme. Gujarat had sought Rs 135 crore from the Centre and the state. The officer said that the Gujarat forest department has received the Union government's intimation, and now we are trying to realize the project through various other schemes of state and Union government.

Officials are now trying to break down the project requirements into different components and see whether some of them can be funded via other schemes. A senior forest officer said, "The department will now seek funds under Biodiversity Conservation and Rural Livelihood Improvement Project among various other schemes."
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/no-centre-grants-for-gir-lion-project-since-two-years-says-gujarat-govt/articleshow/57633482.cms

Gujarat: Lion dies after hit by train engine in Amreli

• IE
• Ahmedabad
• Mon,13 Mar 2017
  

  

  
  

  Summary: Watch What Else Is Making NewsThe sub-adult male lion was hit by an engine on March 3. Despite the best treatment, the lion succumbed to injuries on Wednesday, March 8. AN ASIATIC lion which was injured after being hit by a train engine near Badhda village in Amreli district succumbed to injuries on Wednesday, marking the first lion death in train accident in Gir East forests division this year, forest officers said on Sunday. We had shifted him to animal care centre in Jasadhar of Gir forests. Officers said that the railway engine was on its way to Pipavav port from Savarkundla when it hit the three-year-old lion near Badhda village at around 7 am.

  AN ASIATIC lion which was injured after being hit by a train engine near Badhda village in Amreli district succumbed to injuries on Wednesday, marking the first lion death in train accident in Gir East forests division this year, forest officers said on Sunday. Watch What Else Is Making News The sub-adult male lion was hit by an engine on March 3. Officers said that the railway engine was on its way to Pipavav port from Savarkundla when it hit the three-year-old lion near Badhda village at around 7 am. The pilot of the engine stopped after feeling something colliding with the locomotive.
  
  He found that a lion was injured. Forest officers said that there were two eyewitnesses to the incident. “The accident had broken back of the lion. We had shifted him to animal care centre in Jasadhar of Gir forests.
  
  Source: http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/gujarat-lion-dies-after-hit-by-train-engine-in-amreli-4567336/

HC seeks govt response to PIL against wind farm

TNN | Mar 10, 2017, 04.31 AM ISTAhmedabad: Gujarat high court on Wednesday sought a reply from the state government in response to a PIL objecting to the establishment of a wind farm in the vicinity of a reserved forest at Brihad Gir in Amreli district. 

A wildlife activist, Biren Padhya, filed the PIL seeking HC intervention.

He submitted that the forest department and residents of Bhekhra and Senjal villages near Savarkundla have repeatedly informed the Amreli district collector and the company installing the windmills - Inox Wind Infrastructure Services Ltd - to stop work.

The district authority did not respond to the requests to save the wildlife in the area, which has sizeable numbers of Asiatic lions, leopards and other Schedule 1 animals. They claimed that the construction of windmills and movement of heavy vehicles would cause irreparable damage to wildlife in the area.

The petitioner also submitted that government wasteland and gauchar land was allotted to one Gujarat Floro Chemicals Ltd, which could not have transferred the land to a private party for a wind farm. The petitioner also alleged that the company has not obtained an NOC from the forest authorities, to establish a wind farm close to the forest area.The petitioner claimed that the laxity of the authorities is not in consonance with observations made by the Supreme Court while deciding the case of the translocation of lions to Madhya Pradesh.This case is to be heard further on March 29.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/hc-seeks-govt-response-to-pil-against-wind-farm/articleshow/57545024.cms

PIL against wind farm near Gir forest

Saeed Khan | TNN | Updated: Mar 9, 2017, 05.03 AM ISTAHMEDABAD: The Gujarat high court on Wednesday sought reply from the state government in response to a PIL objecting to establishment of a windmill farm in the vicinity of reserved forest in Brihad Gir area in Amreli district.

Wildlife activist Biren Padhya has filed the PIL seeking HC intervention in the issue. He submitted that the forest department and residents of Bhekhra and Senjal village near Savarkundala have time and again informed Amreli district collector as well as the company that installs windmills - Inox Wind Infrastructure Services Ltd - to stop work.

The district authority did not respond to the requests to save wildlife in the area, which has got sizeable number of Asiatic lions, leopards and other schedule 1 animals. They claimed that the construction of windmills and movement of heavy vehicles would cause irreparable damage to wildlife in the area.

The petitioner has also submitted that the government wasteland and gaucher land was allotted to one Gujarat Floro Chemicals Ltd, which could not have transferred the land to a private party for wind farm. The petitioner has also alleged that the company has not obtained any NOC from the forest authorities for establishment of wind farm though it is very close to the forest area.

 

The petitioner has claimed that the laxity shown by the authorities is not in consonance with the observations made by the Supreme Court while deciding the case of translocation of the lions to Madhya Pradesh. He also submitted that 301 lions died in last five years and 168 of total 523 lions live outside the Gri sanctuary. Such activities, if allowed in the vicinity of the forest area, would prove disastrous for the Asiatic lions and other animals.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/pil-against-wind-farm-near-gir-forest/articleshow/57542957.cms

Asiatic lion survival outside the Gir forest

Expansion and consolidation of Gir Protected Area, Gujarat, India – habitat of the Asiatic lion, and response of prey and predator to the management and dispersion trend of lions outside the Gir forests are interesting and noteworthy. During the last five decades (1965–2015), an approach for the Asiatic lion conservation is one of the best efforts in the world. Unlike other super predators, the number of lions has increased by 4-folds and wild ungulates by over 13-folds in the Gir forest during this period. The distribution range of lions has also expanded to a large landscape in four districts in the state. The consistent shift in feeding patterns of lions is mainly due to the improved availability of wild prey.
http://www.indiaenvironmentportal.org.in/content/440532/asiatic-lion-survival-outside-the-gir-forest/

Asiatic Lion in Mysuru zoo after 2 decades

By Vincent D’Souza  |  Express News Service  |   Published: 07th March 2017 10:52 PM  |  

Shaurya, the lion

BENGALURU: Despite having a wide variety of animal species, Mysuru Zoo, one of the largest in the country, the zoo never did have a pure breed Asiatic lion in the last 20 years.
Though, it had four lions - three females and a male, all of them were Afro-Asiatic lion breeds and the absence of an indigenious country’s pride was always at the back of the zoo authorities minds.
Finally, the long pending wish was fulfilled on Monday evening with the arrival of Shaurya.
1500 km Long Journey
The three-year-old Asiatic lion arrived at the zoo after a tiresome and stressful road journey of 1,500 kms from Rajkot in Gujarat. The animal will be under quarantine and observation for 10 days before it will be on display for the visitors. During the quarantine period, its movement, behavior and diet will be observed 24x7 through wifi cameras fixed in its holding room.
Only the animal keeper, supervisor, RFO, veterinarian and Executive Director will be allowed to see it and nobody else.
The animal started the journey at 7.30 am on Saturday and reached Mysuru Zoo at 7.30 pm on Monday with just one stopover of a few hours at Hubballi. The lion only suffered some light scratches on its body during the 60-hour long journey, which is common during such journeys.
The Rajkot zoo veterinarian was there to ensure that the animal reached Mysuru safe.
Shayrya’s Mate
Mysuru Zoo Executive Director K Kamala said Shaurya will be paired with Renita, a lioness brought from Junagad zoo last July for breeding of pure Asiatic lions. She said Asiatic lion is rare in Indian zoo and many zoos do not have it.Kamala says the they got Shaurya through an animal exchange programme. The procedure began in July/August, 2016. Central Zoo Authority approved in November. Though, he could have been shifted soon after, the authorities deferred it in the wake of winter. Finally, it was decided to execute the order this month.
45 Animals in Exchange for Shaurya
The Asiatic lion is one of the few animals that have a high exchange value and the Mysuru Zoo exchanged as many as 45 animals and birds with Rajkot Zoo for it.
These include a pair of Indian gret wolf, a Himalayan black bear, 2 female hog deer, 2 male common sand boa, a pair of Alexandrine Parakeet, a pair of Lady amherst pheasant,2 pairs of Red jungle fowl, a pair of White Ibis, a pair of Rose Ringed Parakeet, 10 pairs of Budgerigar and three pairs of Java sparrow.
They will leave for Rajkot on Wednesday.
http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bengaluru/2017/mar/07/asiatic-lion-in-mysuru-zoo-after-2-decades-1578817.html

Forest department trains farmers near Gir forest

TNN | Updated: Mar 7, 2017, 09.54 AM IST

RAJKOT: The forest department organized a series of training programmes for livelihood enhancement of farmers living around Gir forest. According to forest officials, livelihood improvement along with conservation of forest and environment was the need of the time and with the training programmes have been started in Sasan Gir with this objective in mind.

"We provide training on organic farming, vermin compost, techniques of modern farming, along with conservation of forest and importance of biodiversity conservation. During training, farmers will also be informed about digital technology and use of banking and various schemes of banking sector for farmers. Farmers will also be informed about renewable resources water and solar energy," said Ram Ratan Nala, deputy conservator of forests, wildlife division, Sasan Gir.

Forest department has developed models for harvesting water and solar energy They have constructed a water tank for rain water harvesting with capacity up to 8 lakh litre at the campus in Sasan Gir. They have also installed solar plant of 100kwh capacity. These were developed as demonstration models for farmers to conserve water in their houses by trapping rain water and to move towards renewable energy.

"For this series of training programmes, experts from various departments such as forest, agriculture, banks, agricultural college, as well as farmers have been invited. Field visits are being held for live demonstration of successful experiments," Nala added.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/rajkot/forest-dept-trains-farmers-near-gir-forest/articleshow/57500480.cms

Patrol team attacked near Gir forest, trekker stabbed to death

The forest patrol was assaulted near Bordi village in Dhari taluka of Amreli at around 8:30 pm on Saturday.
By: Express News Service | Rajkot | Updated: March 7, 2017 4:10 am

A forest trekker was stabbed to death during an attack on a forest patrol by seven men during a crackdown on an illegal lion show on the border of the Gir forest in Amreli district. The forest patrol was assaulted near Bordi village in Dhari taluka of Amreli at around 8:30 pm on Saturday. According to the complaint filed by forest guard Naresh Vala, the accused were showing lions to their relatives in the area between Bordi and Samuh Kheti villages when the forest patrol arrived. Later, those behind the show attacked the team with knives and iron pipes. Dharmendra Vala (28), a forest trekker, was stabbed multiple times and died on the spot, police said, adding that Naresh Vala too was injured in the attack. In his complaint, Naresh Vala named Dost Mohammed, Jamalbhai, Saddambhai, Jan Mohammed, Salamanbhai and two unidentified men as the accused. All have been booked for murder, rioting and preventing a public servant from discharging his duties.

“Two of the accused, Jamalbhai and Saddambhai, were also injured in the incident. They are undergoing treatment at Ahmedabad civil hospital. We will arrest them as soon as they are discharged. Search is on for the rest,” Dhari Circle Inspector Prakash Chaudhari said.
Dharmendra had been hired as a trekker last year. A forest trekker’s job mainly involves tracking and rescuing wild animals, but they are sometimes called for patrolling duties.
“There were five persons in the patrolling party, including trekker Dharmendra Vala, forest guard Naresh Vala, a Vanya Prani Mitra (friend of wild animals) and two others. They were not armed,” said a top forest officer of Gir East division forest.
Deputy Conservator Of Forest of Gir East division, T Karuppasamy, said that presence of lions was confirmed in the area, where the patrol was attacked. The area falls in jurisdiction of Dalkhaniya range of Gir National Park and Sanctuary in Gir East division forest.
“The boy was a daredevil. Due to his good work as a Vanya Prani Mitra, he had been given contract as a forest trekker…While the police are investigating the incident, we are also looking into it,” said Aniruddh Pratap Singh, Chief Conservator Of Forest of Junagadh Wildlife Circle.
http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/city-others/patrol-team-attacked-near-gir-forest-trekker-stabbed-to-death/

Soon, pure-bred Asiatic lions to roar in Katraj

Abhishek Samuel | TNN | Updated: Mar 7, 2017, 09.52 AM ISTPUNE: Those who have heard lions roaring in the city zoo over the last few months and are eager to see them may just have to wait a little longer.

Officials at the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park in Katraj said the only pair of pure-bred Asiatic lions in the state will be put on display in a week's time.

The lions Subhi and Tejas would occupy one of the tiger enclosures here, officials said.

According to zoo director Rajkumar Jadhav, "The lions were under quarantine since they arrived. They have been cleared of the quarantine and are now in the process of being moved to their new enclosure. We have two tiger enclosures at the zoo, one of which will now be occupied by the lions. We aim to finish constructing their new enclosure within 2017".

Initially, the lions were to be put on display around the Republic Day weekend. The date was then postponed to Valentine's Day. They are now slated to be exhibited in a week.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/pune/soon-pure-bred-asiatic-lions-to-roar-in-katraj/articleshow/57503336.cms

For Gir forester, fight goes on

• TOI
• Ahmedabad
• Sun,05 Mar 2017
  

  Summary: "This is so because it was protected by the forest department and by dedicated staff at all levels. Junagadh: Rajendra Dethadiya, 65, retired as forester from the state forest department. "Today Gir is lush green and a dense forest," Dethadiya said. He knows each and every corner of the 182-square-km of the sanctuary.He said that as he had spent his entire life with Gir animals, he is emotionally attached to them. But this has not dimmed his love for the Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary.

  Junagadh: Rajendra Dethadiya, 65, retired as forester from the state forest department. But this has not dimmed his love for the Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary. He joined the department as forest guard in 1978 and, in 1984, one of his hands was mutilated while fighting wood smugglers in the sanctuary.Even now he continues his fight to save the pristine beauty of the forest.
  
  He says a true nature lover never retires.Dethadiya is unhappy over the allotment of land close to the sanctuary for setting up Bhakt Kavi Narsinh Mehta University. The allotted land falls in what is known as lions' corridor of Gir. He is one of the three petitioners who have filed a PIL in Gujarat high court against the government's decision to allot this land to a proposed university."Today Gir is lush green and a dense forest," Dethadiya said.
  
  Source: http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/for-gir-forester-fight-goes-on/articleshow/57470985.cms

WATCH In dangerous rescue operation, lioness saved from horrific death by Forest dept officials

The Sunday morning gave goosebumps to the residents of Amreli when they saw a lioness in a dry well.

By: FE Online | Updated: March 5, 2017 4:18 PM

After hours of effort, the lioness came out with the help of rope. (Video grab)

The Sunday morning gave goosebumps to the residents of Amreli when they saw a lioness in a dry well. Amreli district is situated near the Sasan Gir region which is known for its lion population. There were several cases of lions entered the nearby villages and roaming on the streets but this time it was different. The residents woke up on the roar of a lioness. After a search, they found her stuck in a dry well. Getting the information, a team of Forest department reached the spot to rescue her.
The team covered the well and used rope to take the lioness out of it. They threw an end of rope to her. After hours of effort, the lioness came out with the help of rope. The team then put her in a cage and took with them. No team members were hurt in the whole exercise. The reason of the lioness getting stuck into the well is not clear. However, speculations doing the rounds amongst residents is that she might have been roaming around in search of food and fell into the well.
A few months earlier, a lioness was found walking freely in Virpur village of Amreli district. In the morning, the lioness ventured in to the village and was roaming probably in search of food when the villagers spotted her. However, instead of going behind the doors, many people dotted the road from where she passed by keeping safe distance from her while others gathered on their balcony and terrace. Later, officials of Forest Department reached the spot and forced the lioness to return to her habitat in the forest. Before this, a pride of eight lions, including two cubs, was seen loitering in the residential area of Junagadh town near the Girnar Darwaza area.
Lioness roams freely on streets of Amreli, watch reactions of villagers in the video
The Lions of Gir had also featured with megastar Amitabh Bachchan in the advertisement ‘Khushboo Gujarat Ki’ that was shot to push Gujarat tourism.
http://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/watch-in-dangerous-rescue-operation-lioness-saved-from-horrific-death-by-forest-dept-officials/575607/

Gir is lush green and a dense forest: Rajendra Dethadiya

Rajendra Dethadiya’s hand was mutilated by wood smugglers in 1984

Vijaysinh Parmar | TNN | Updated: Mar 5, 2017, 08.05 AM IST

JUNAGADH: Rajendra Dethadiya, 65, retired as forester from the state forest department. But this has not dimmed his love for the Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary. He joined the department as forest guard in 1978 and, in 1984, one of his hands was mutilated while fighting wood smugglers in the sanctuary.

Even now he continues his fight to save the pristine beauty of the forest. He says a true nature lover never retires.

Dethadiya is unhappy over the allotment of land close to the sanctuary for setting up Bhakt Kavi Narsinh Mehta University. The allotted land falls in what is known as lions' corridor of Gir. He is one of the three petitioners who have filed a PIL in Gujarat high court against the government's decision to allot this land to a proposed university.

"Today Gir is lush green and a dense forest," Dethadiya said. "This is so because it was protected by the forest department and by dedicated staff at all levels."

He said dry wood collection (Kathiyara system) was once allowed in Girnar. This unfortunately helped in proliferation of illegal wood-cutters.

"It took years to stop illegal wood-cutters," the retired forester said. "Various measures were adopted for this, including confronting them with force. I survived a deadly attack by the wood smugglers. I have tried my best to serve the forest and its wildlife.''

Dethadiya's hand was mutilated and made useless by the wood smugglers in 1984 during one such fight in the Junagadh area. In fact, it would not be an exaggeration to say that his role has been critical in conservation and rejuvenation of Girnar forests.

Rajendra, better known as Kishor Dethadiya, has always served in the Girnar forest and devoted himself to the conservation of the wildlife sanctuary. He knows each and every corner of the 182-square-km of the sanctuary.

He said that as he had spent his entire life with Gir animals, he is emotionally attached to them.

"That is why I find it painful that wild animals' space is shrinking and their corridors are being blocked," Dethadiya said. "This will increase human-wildlife conflict and animals will pay the price for human folly." He further said that animals are unable to raise their voice against haphazard development by human beings "Hence we have moved the high court in an effort to protect the animals,'' the retired forester said.

Dethadiya has passed only the old SSC but has acquired good knowledge about the flora and fauna of Girnar. He is always ready to promote conservation and has been actively involved in environment education even after retirement.

"Whatever little I can do to save forests, I will do it,'' he said.

The land on which the university is proposed to be built was allotted to the forest department (extension) and, from 2007 to 2013, it carried out plantations in the 40 hectare area to improve the biodiversity in the land adjoining the sanctuary.

"I have seen rich biodiversity increasing in the area adjoining Gir. The land on which the proposed university is to come up was declared a permanent corridor for lions,'' he said.

"I have no regrets that I lost the use of my hand. But I am deeply pained that the government is suffering from 'policy paralysis' and is bent on reversing what has been done to protect and save wildlife," Dethadiya said.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/for-gir-forester-fight-goes-on/articleshow/57470985.cms

Asiatic lioness, cubs set to charm zoo visitors

Nehru zoo has 12 male and 14 female lions, including newborns.

By TelanganaToday   |   Published: 4th Mar 2017   11:29 pm Updated: 5th Mar 2017   1:07 am

Cynosure: Seven-year-old Saina (lioness) with her seven-month-old cubs at Nehru Zoo Park.

Open

Hyderabad: Saina, the seven-year-old Asiatic lioness, which gave birth to four cubs in August last in Nehru Zoological Park, will be soon released in its enclosure in the visitors’ area.
It is after a gap of more than two years that the lion population in the zoo has seen an increase.
Antony, an eight-year-old Asiatic lion, fathered the cubs, said the zoo officials, adding that the zoo currently has 12 male and 14 female Asiatic lions, which include the newly born cubs.
Officials said that, earlier after delivery, the lioness did not let anyone near her or the cubs, due to which the gender and health condition of the cubs could not be determined. “Saina is feeding the cubs and every precaution is being taken right from their birth to maintain their health,” said the official.
The lioness earlier used to hide its cubs every time a keeper or any other zoo staff went to provide food or approached the enclosure.
Saina is usually fed with half a kg of poultry in the morning while her lunch comprises six kg of beef and 150 gm of liver. For a few months after her delivery, she was provided with an additional two kg of chicken and beef, which was stopped recently.
http://telanganatoday.news/asiatic-lioness-cubs-set-charm-zoo-visitors

No deadline yet on translocation of Gir lions to Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno Palpur

Congress and BJP MLAs who took part in the discussion in the Assembly wanted the MP government to expedite the process because tribal families have been moved out long ago in anticipation of the translocation that was mooted more than two decades ago.
Written by Milind Ghatwai | Bhopal | Published:March 1, 2017 4:45 pm Forest Minister Gaurishankar Shejwar on Tuesday told the Assembly that he won’t commit himself to any translocation deadline because it was for the Centre and the ministry of environment and forest to decide (Express archive)

More than two and a half years after the Supreme Court threw out a curative petition filed to stall translocation of Asiatic lions from Gir in Gujarat to Kuno Palpur in Madhya Pradesh, there is still no clarity on when the process would begin.
The committee of experts formed at the instance of the apex court visited the proposed translocation site in Sheopur district of MP in December last year. A draft titled the “Action plan for the Reintroduction of the Asiatic Lions (Panthera Leo Persica) in Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh’’ is ready.
Forest Minister Gaurishankar Shejwar on Tuesday told the Assembly that he won’t commit himself to any translocation deadline because it was for the Centre and the ministry of environment and forest to decide. He said the state government was yet to receive a draft of the tripartite Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the union ministry and forest departments of Gujarat and MP.
Once MP and Gujarat give their inputs, the final draft would be submitted to the law ministry.
Sources told The Indian Express that after the December 19 meeting in MP, the committee of experts hasn’t met again though it was supposed to meet in Gir. In the December 19 meeting, most members had addressed concerns raised by Gujarat.
According to the summary record of the meeting, Gujarat had again tried to delay the translocation by insisting for the findings of 33 ecological studies suggested by it before finalizing the action plan. The Gujarat government was told that seven studies were completed and 12 studies were not required to be conducted. Most members felt finalisation of the action plan and the remaining studies could go on simultaneously.
However, MP has also not kept it word on notifying additional area for the sanctuary from the existing 343 sq kms. The meeting had decided that MP would complete the formality to declare Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary as Kuno National Park before February 28. MP has proposed to increase the area to 758 sq km by shifting 195 families from Bagcha village.
Congress and BJP MLAs who took part in the discussion in the Assembly wanted the MP government to expedite the process because tribal families have been moved out long ago in anticipation of the translocation that was mooted more than two decades ago.
In April 2013, the SC had given six months for translocation of lions and in August 2014 rejected the curative petition, the last effort to scuttle translocation. RTI activist Ajay Dubey, who has moved a contempt petition in the SC, said the delay was surprising because the forest ministry was now headed by Anil Dave, a Rajya Sabha member from MP.
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/no-deadline-yet-on-translocation-of-gir-lions-to-madhya-pradeshs-kuno-palpur-4549519/