Environment · 18 Jul 2026

Asiatic Lion carrying capacity

With reference to Gujarat's Asiatic lion population, which one of the following statements is correct?

AAs per the 2025 census, Gujarat's lion population stood at 891, of which the majority live within Gir's core protected area
BAs per the 2025 census, Gujarat's lion population stood at 891, of which 497 lions live outside Gir's core area in satellite habitats
CThe National Tiger Conservation Authority's "maneater" criteria were originally developed specifically for Asiatic lions before being adapted for tigers
DGujarat's lion population declined from 891 in 2020 to 674 in the 2025 census
This question is based on: 891 Lions, 394 Slots: What Gujarat's 'Maneater' Crisis Is Really About
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About this question

Why in news

A sharp rise in fatal lion attacks across Gujarat's Greater Gir landscape has triggered mass captures and permanent "maneater" designations, with 497 of the state's 891 lions now living outside Gir's core protected area.

Why for UPSC

This tests whether aspirants can correctly recall the exact population split figures rather than only the headline total - a common area where UPSC probes precision over general awareness.

Prelims summary

Gujarat's Asiatic lion population rose from 674 (2020) to 891 (2025), with 497 lions now living outside Gir's core area - more than half the population in unprotected satellite habitat.

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