IIM-Ahmedabad professor to join Gujarat's battle for lions

30-10-2013
IIM-Ahmedabad professor to join Gujarat's battle for lions
The Economics Times
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/environment/flora-fauna/iim-ahmedabad-professor-to-join-gujarats-battle-for-lions/articleshow/24892062.cms

It will be wildlife experts versus a management guru from the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, when it comes to countering the claims of Madhya Pradesh over the translocation of lions to Kuno Palpur. The state forests department has asked the management guru to study the planned dispersal of lions in Kuno Palpur and the impact of a possible outbreak of disease in the Saurashtra region.

Sources said that Ramanathan Subramaniam, a marketing expert who joined the IIM-A in September, has been roped in for the two studies. Subramaniam has earned a PhD in marketing from the Katz Graduate School of Business, University of Pittsburgh, and has served in the University of Kansas.

When contacted by email, Subramaniam said that he had been handed over the responsibility for the two studies but declined to part with details.

Sources in the state government said that Subramaniam - who is an analysis and research expert - has been asked to study the projected movements of lions in the Kuno Palpur area in the context of the study done by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII). The WII study showed that a lioness whose cubs were small had a smaller range (16.9 km). "But during the next year the range increased almost threefold as her cubs, now over 1.5 years, could move with her," the study said.

The WII study will be imposed on Kuno Palpur and the expert will prepare the possible movement patterns. An official said that one study had revealed that a nomad collared lion had moved 54km in a single day. Such wanderings could lead to dangerous situations if the big cats enter a village on their very first day at their new home. A senior officer said "Villages are situated 2km from the Kuno Palpur sanctuary."

Royal traffic pattern

Ramanathan Subramaniam has been provided with a graphic that maps the movement of lions in and outside the Gir Sanctuary. The movement pattern was prepared based on the spotting of the animals and by their kills. The IIM-A professor has been asked to study the impact of any outbreak of deadly diseases in the sanctuary.

Feeling at home

The big cats in Gir and nearby areas prefer to spend their entire day in moist and shady habitats. This was revealed in the study 'Home range and habitat preference of female lions (Panthera leo persica) in Gir forests, India'. The study stated that overall, lionesses were found to use the Teak-Acacia-Zizyphus-Anogeissus habitat the most and the agricultural areas the least. During night, there were some instances of lions venturing into agricultural fields. The Teak-Acacia-Zizyphus-Anogeissus habitat type comprises over 40% of Gir forest.

Madhya Pradesh may get 12 lions in first phase !

29-10-2013
Madhya Pradesh may get 12 lions in first phase !
Phulchhab

http://phulchhab.janmabhoominewspapers.com/epaper.aspx

Promote tourism, neta ishtyle

26-10-2013
Promote tourism, neta ishtyle
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/opinion/edit-page/Promote-tourism-neta-ishtyle/articleshow/24713683.cms

The lions of the Gir sanctuary in Gujarat have long been tourist attractions. But now a self-styled lion in human form promises to outdo them. According to reports, Narendra Modi's NRI fans from several parts of the world are planning to flock to India to watch how the man they perceive to be the king of the country's political jungle operates on the campaign trail.

The BJP has reportedly scrapped its strategy of employing Bollywoodstars to act as crowd-pullers at political rallies, feeling that Modi is as big a draw as any matinee idol. NaMo's supposed box office appeal, particularly among Indians living abroad, might be put to good use by those who seek to project India as a tourist destination.

In fact, it's not just Modi who could prove to be a star in the making in India's political firmament. Incredible India offers several equallyincredible netas who could do double-duty as politicians-cum-promoters of tourism.

After all, if Bangladesh can tout itself as a destination for 'poverty tourism' - especially designed to attract visitors from affluent countries with high standards of living who are curious to see how the other half lives - there is no reason that the world's most populous democracy can't sell 'neta tourism', particularly when elections draw near with all their attendant sound and fury.

What might be called 'maharaja tourism' - based on erstwhile royal palaces converted into luxury hotels - has become old hat. Or rather, old turban. India's neo-maharajas are our netas, who swank about in beacon-mounted cars and disport themselves in Lutyens' bungalows as though to the manor born.

Through clever marketing, diverse traditional festivals ranging from Kumbh Mela to Pushkar'sannual camel fair have been turned into major tourist attractions. A ringside seat overlooking India's political arena, before and after polls, would provide visitors revealing insights into the many time-honoured rites and rituals of our democracy, as famous for its trade in horses asPushkar is for its commerce in camels.

With the laudable end in view of attracting sightseers from abroad to help swell the country's depleted coffers of foreign exchange, our netas should play to the gallery and pack as much fire and brimstone as possible into their election speeches, and turn their rallies into three-ring circuses or tamashas in triplicate. 'Competitive promotionalism' should replace competitive populism as the new neta buzzword.

In short, our political leaders should ensure that when overseas visitors prepare to return to their adoptive homes they do so with a sense of relief best expressed by a note of thanksgiving: There, but for the grace of diaspora, go i.

Kuno may get 12 lions in first phase

22-10-2013
Kuno may get 12 lions in first phase
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Kuno-may-get-12-lions-in-first-phase/articleshow/24513145.cms

Six months after the Supreme Court ordered the translocation of Asiatic lions from Gir in Gujarat to Palpur Kuno inMadhya Pradesh, an expert committee has recommended that the process should begin by shifting a dozen big cats to the neighbouring state.

Last week, the two-member expert panel comprising Wildlife Institute of India scientist Y V Jhala and scientist Ravi Chellam has submitted a 50-odd page report to the SC-appointed 12-member committee to monitor the translocation saying that 12 lions from Sasan should be translocated in the first phase.

"We have also suggested that in all 30-40 animals from the wild be translocated to Kuno over a period of time," said Jhala. However, the final decision on the number will be decided by the committee.

Palpur Kuno has a sanctuary area of 314 sq km. The committee had in the first meeting on July 29 asked Jhala and Chellam to decide on the translocation protocol.

Jhala and Chellam have forwarded the report to all the 12 members and asked for their suggestions. The report suggests that the Palpur Kuno sanctuary, which has 69 cheetals per sq km and about 80 other animals, was ready to house the 12 big cats immediately.

The duo has outlined the objective of the project which says that extensive presence of lions would help the local economy and boost eco tourism but is silent on the conservation.

Sources said while MP is not likely to raise any objection to the report, senior forest officials inGujarat are preparing a detailed note to continue their protest on translocating lions.

Virus attack in Asiatic lions a hoax: Study

18-10-2013
Virus attack in Asiatic lions a hoax: Study
The Economic Times
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/environment/flora-fauna/virus-attack-in-asiatic-lions-a-hoax-study/articleshow/24334041.cms

The result of examination of the presence of Canine Distemper Virus (CDR) or Pestes Des Petitis Ruminants Virus (PPVR) in Asiatic lion has brought in relief for forest officials. The results have revealed that there is no presence of CDV and PPVR in Asiatic lions.

The study was taken up following an alarm raised by Dr Richard Kock of Britain's Royal Veterinary College, who was quoted as saying, "The lions in India are a small vulnerable population and widespread infection with such a virus can kill at least 40 per cent of Gir lions.

The report, which was forwarded by Gujarat State Bio-Technology Mission (GSBTM) after examination of nearly 10 per cent of the total population, has made it clear that during examination the mission did not find presence of CDR or PPVR virus or carriers in Asiatic lions.

Confirming the report, chief wildlife warden C N Pandey said, "We have received the report and the examination has revealed that there is no immediate threat to lions."

Senior officials from the department said Dr Kock had stated that he had plans to visit India in September to conduct tests with the help of Wildlife Institute of India ( WII). However, he is yet to seek any permission from the department for conducting the test.

The bogey of a deadly virus that wiped out a significant number of wild lions in African Serengeti in mid-1990s was raised again in May this year, ostensibly to support the proposal of transfer of Asiatic lions from its only home in Gujarat to a new hostile habitat in Madhya Pradesh.

TOI has found that the study, which was completed in 2012, was based on a sample taken from a lion carcass in 2006.

Senior officials said that in this connection, Gujarat forest department, with intension of scientific conclusion regarding the presence or absence of CDV and PPRV as well as to help management and conservation of Asiatic lions in Gujarat, entrusted the job of screening the Asiatic lions for these viruses to Gujarat State Bio-Technology Mission (GSBTM) working under the department of science and technology, Government of Gujarat.

The animal tissue samples were collected as opportunistic collection from lions. Therefore, the sampling was quite random. The tests were conducted on animals that were brought for treatment after rescue from different part of Gir forest and nearby areas and hence, the area of survey was not limited to one area, but was scattered in almost all areas of Gir and nearby areas.

Search on to find dead lion's nails

14-10-2013
Search on to find dead lion's nails
The Times of India
http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-10-14/rajkot/43025842_1_nails-gir-east-division-khambha

The forest department in Gir East division has launched a search to find out five nails of lion that was found dead in a farm in a village of Amreli district.

According to forest officials, the lion's body was found in a well on the outskirts of Gidardi village in Khambha taluka October 5.

The lion may have fallen into the well accidentally some 20 days ago, officials said.

Sources said its skeletal remains like hair, nails and some other parts body were recovered after a farmer Hakabhai found an bone in the well water.

"The lion's body was totally decomposed when it was fished out. We pumped out water from the well to find its skeletons and nails. Some nails were recovered but we are still searching for five nails in the well,said a forest official.

Sources said that there are many wells in agricultural fields that are open or uncovered with any parapet wall.

Tourists flock to Gir sanctuary on opening day of season

17-10-2013
Tourists flock to Gir sanctuary on opening day of season
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Tourists-flock-to-Gir-sanctuary-on-opening-day-of-season/articleshow/24274227.cms

Dekho dekho kaun aaya? Sher dekhne India aaya! The first day of the opening of the Gir sanctuary saw a historic rise in number of people from all over the country thronging the Gir National Park to have a dekko at the king of jungle — the Asiatic lion.

As many as 1,785 people visited Gir - double the number last year - on the day the park was opened for visitors post-monsoon on Wednesday. On October 16 last year, when the sanctuary reopened, about 935 people had visited the park.

Abdul Kadir, a businessman from Kolkata came all the way to spendEid holiday with the Asiatic lion. He spotted six lioness and cubs in the Kardi in Gir sanctuary. "I booked online and would have gone back happy had I spotted even one lion." Officials said the major attraction among tourists were the five cubs who are in lodged Devalia interpretation zone. It was during the wildlife celebrations that the forest department had named the male cubs as Shardul, Yuvraj and Vanraj, while the female cubs will be identified as Heer and Mallika.

Another tourist, Mahendra Garg, said, "We had relatives from Kerala who had come to visit Dwarka and Somnath. We decided to visit Gir first and were lucky to sight two lionesses. It was a great experience to see lions in the green as the forest is still lush because of the extended monsoon." Local guide Hitesh Solanki said that he has never seen such a rush in his 13-year-long stint here. According to conservator of forest, R L Meena, the Amitabh Bachchan campaign has played a major role in increasing the tourist flow.

Ahmedabad: Online tickets for Gir safari snapped up

15-10-2013
Ahmedabad: Online tickets for Gir safari snapped up
DNA
http://www.dnaindia.com/ahmedabad/report-ahmedabad-online-tickets-for-gir-safari-snapped-up-1903902

Sanctuary opens to visitors on October 17 after monsoon break.

Here's some bad news for those who had planned to go for the Gir Jungle Trail during the upcoming tourist season. For, the e-permits for the Gir Jungle Trail on the day the sanctuary opens for visitors — on October 17 — have already been lapped up.

If that isn't enough, the e-permits for the Diwali period (November 3 to 12) for the trail are also off the block. E-permits refer to the online booking of the Gir Jungle Trail and the Devaliya Interpretation Centre. However, online booking for the Devaliya Interpretation Centre is still available.

It should be noted that this is for the first time that visitors have been offered the facility to book their Gir Safari and Devaliya Interpretation Centre online. Though online tickets for October 17 and those during the Diwali Vacation have been booked, tickets for the trail will still be available if booked manually.

"So far we have issued 1,890 e-permits. Each permit allows for the travel of 6 people in a Jeep. Of this most of the booking has come from Indians. For Devaliya, 212 bookings have been done," said chief wildlife warden CN Pandey.

The forest department has so far earned Rs17.19 lakh from the e-permits issued for the jungle trail while the income from Devaliya is Rs1.14 lakh. It should be noted that normally 90 permits are issued per day for the jungle trail which goes up to 150 permits during festive seasons like Diwali and Christmas. The trail is available in three slots 6am to 9 am, 9am to 12 pm and 3pm to 6 pm.

The Gir Sanctuary is scheduled to be opened on October 16 after it was closed during the monsoon. Tourists will be allowed into the sanctuary from October 17 onwards. The online facility was made available after requests from tourists and tour operators who had complained about the long-queue outside the ticketing windows particularly during the festive season. The online booking for the safari can be done 90 days in advance.

Gir catches Maharashtra’s fancy

15-10-2013
Gir catches Maharashtra's fancy
The Times of India
http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-10-15/ahmedabad/43065532_1_gir-sasan-and-devaliya-bookings

Among the Indians, the king of the jungle seems to be attracting tourists from the neighbouring state Maharashtra the most. Analysis of the online data reveals that the tourists from Maharashtra and especially, Mumbai and Pune have had the lion's share.

According to the forest department officials, in the past 10 days, of the first 1,000 bookings, there were 500 odd foreigners, but now this has decreased. Of the 8,110 bookings, there were only 842 online bookings from foreign nationals. Of the remaining 7,300, over 50% bookings were from Gujarat. And of the remaining 50% bookings, which were from other parts of the state, around 45% bookings were from Maharashtra.

These were mainly from Mumbai and Pune. The officials attributed the increasing number of tourists from Maharashtra to good roads and their better connectivity.

The second reason of high number of Maharashtrian tourists is Somnath. "Tourists from Maharashtra visit Somnath for pilgrimage and take Gir in their itinerary. In order to facilitate these tourists and those from abroad, the forest department launched an online booking earlier this month. With the online facility, the department also introduced payment system through credit or debit card for tourists visiting 'Gir interpretation zones' at Sasan and Devaliya from this season," said a senior forester.

On an average, the forest department issues 90 permits on each day the sanctuary is open in a season. Of these, 50% permits will be reserved for online booking, while the remaining permits will be reserved for on-the-spot booking which will be issued at the 'interpretation zone' in Sasan.

Gir to become plastic free

15-10-2013
Gir to become plastic free
The Times of India
http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-10-15/ahmedabad/43064954_1_gir-sanctuary-foreign-tourists-cent-rise

In order to make Gir free of plastic and waste, a dustbin has been kept in every jeep touring the sanctuary. The drivers have been asked to get down the vehicle and put the plastic material they spot on roads into the dustbin. The number of tourists to Gir sanctuary has increased by over 140 per cent since 2009-10. "The income too has gone up by 125 per cent," said a senior official.

In 2009-10, over 2.05 lakh visited the sanctuary which touched 4.60 lakh in 2012-13, the official said, adding that the income which was around Rs 2.15 crore in 2009-2010 has gone up to Rs 5.1 crore.

Senior officials said that the sanctuary witnessed 21 per cent more visitors during October 2012-June 2013 period as compared to October 2011-June 2012. The period saw 28 per cent rise in foreign tourists and 19 per cent rise in revenue.

According to the officials, more than 4,60,000 tourists arrived this season, fetching a revenue of Rs 5.1 crore. They said that the number of tourists went up considerably ever since the advertisement featuring Amitabh Bachchan was aired in October 2010.

The department has also introduced bus services for tourists in groups and has also increased the number of permits issued in a single day from 90 to 150. The number of jeeps has been increased to around 120 and numbers of guides has gone up to 90.

Record tourists flock Sasan Gir to watch lions as new season begins

17-10-2013
Record tourists flock Sasan Gir to watch lions as new season begins
The Indian Express
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/record-tourists-flock-sasan-gir-to-watch-lions-as-new-season-begins/1183711/

This is the time when lions fight for territory. Sandeep Kumar

On the first day of the new season, as many as 1,785 tourists visited Sasan Gir to watch the Asiatic lions in their only natural habitat of Gir forests in Junagadh district on Wednesday.

The number was almost double as compared with 935 tourists registered last year, deputy conservator of forest (wildlife division) Sandeep Kumar said.

People from many parts of the country also went on safari in the tourism zone of Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary and Gir Interpretation Zone in Devaliya, forest officers said.

"Rainfall has been very good this year and due to better rescue operations and treatment, more number of lion cubs are seen," Kumar said, adding that around 80 cubs of the big cats were observed after the monsoon, the breeding season for lions.

Cases of infight are high during the season as lions fight for dominance and sometimes even kill cubs. According to the 2010 Census, there were 411 lions in the Gir forest and protected areas.

Forest officers said that there was a high booking for safaris till January. "As many as 9,000 persons have sought permission online for safaris this season. Out of them, around 900 are foreign tourists," Kumar said.

Incidentally, a record 4.16 lakh tourists had visited Gir during 2012-13 season. The sanctuary remains open for tourists from October 16 to June 15.

In April this year, the Supreme Court had ordered the translocation of Asiatic lions from Gir forest to Madhya Pradesh for better chances of survival of the endangered species. But the Gujarat government filed a review petition against the apex court verdict.

Residents of Sasan Gir and nearby two villages had threatened last month to boycott tourists in protest of inclusion of their villages in Mendarda taluka after pulling them out of Talala taluka of Gir Somnath district. The protests ended after local politicians gave villagers assurance that the three villages would go back to Talala.

Gujarat government blamed for delay in transfer of lions

11-10-2013
Gujarat government blamed for delay in transfer of lions
Indian Express
http://newindianexpress.com/nation/Gujarat-government-blamed-for-delay-in-transfer-of-lions/2013/10/11/article1829878.ece

Despite the six-month deadline set by the Supreme court for shifting the Asiatic Lions from Gujarat to Madhya Pradesh expiring last month, the prospect of seeing the majestic animals roaming the state's forests in the foreseeable future appears rather dim.

According to MP Forest Minister Sartaj Singh and senior forest officials, inaction on the part of Gujarat government was the reason for the delay.

"The Gujarat government had raised several objections in the past and some formalities that need to be executed from their side are still remaining. We are waiting for them to take necessary action.It will be difficult to give a definite time-frame as to when the translocation will take place," he told Express.

The apex court had on April 18 directed the wildlife officials to shift a certain number of lions from Gir in Gujarat to the Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary in MP and had given six months time to do so. However,the whole process in now caught in a bureaucratic tangle.

Kuno in Sheopur district  was chosen by experts from the Wildlife Institute of India as the best place to reintroduce lions in the wild. Gujarat, however, had opposed the move on the grounds that the lions were a matter of state pride and that the animals will not be safe in their new environment.

The SC, while rejecting Gujarat's objection to the transfer of the lions, had stated that the lion was an endangered species and hence all efforts to prevent its extinction, including translocation should be done.

Moreover, the court had set up a 12-member panel comprising officials from MP, Gujarat and the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF).

MP Principal Chief Conservator of Forest(PCCF) Narendra Kumar, who is a member of the SC constituted committee, said reminders had been sent to the Modi Government. However, nothing came out of it.

Roar of the wild

10-10-2013
Roar of the wild
Deccan Herald
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/362119/roar-wild.html

Amidst all the discussion and debate on saving tigers, Asiatic lions – a lion subspecies which survives only in India now – also figured in the news, recently.

On April 15, the Supreme Court passed an order that a chunk of lions residing in the Gir National Park, Gujarat – their only home now - must to be translocated to the Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh. This was to ensure that the entire Asiatic lion population is not wiped out in the event of a natural calamity or disease in Gir.

Unfortunately, six months past the verdict, not a single lion has been handed over to Kuno which is seen as a sign of unnecessary political posturing and environmental insensitivity on the part of Gujarat CM and PM hopeful Narendra Modi.

Thoughtfully, during the past week, which was observed as the World Wildlife Week, three photographers and nature enthusiasts came up with a photo exhibition called 'Landscape of the Lions.' Showcased at the India International centre, it depicted lions and their natural habitat at Gir, highlighting how they desperately need to be provided a second home to be able to endure on the map of wildlife of India.


N Shiva Kumar, the lead photographer and a freelance writer on wildlife, says, "India is the only country in the world to have had five big cat species – the cheetah, leopard, snow leopard, tiger and lion - until recently. Sadly, the cheetah was lost to hunting, the tiger has its back to the wall and the Asiatic lion, somehow, has gone off the radar of environmental experts, completely. This is when lion has always been a prominent symbol in our culture as the vahan of Goddess Durga and even being our national animal
till 1973."

There was a time when the territory of the Asiatic lion spread from Palestine to Palamu (present Jharkhand). However, they were hunted down so fiercely, that in 1947 only about 173 remained in Gir where the nawab of Junagadh had protected them. Sharad Khanna, a wildlife tour company owner and participant photographer says, "Over the years, problems have emerged in Gir too. The number of habitant tribals has grown, tourist movement has increased and chances of a sickness spreading and consuming the lions, has multiplied."

The photographs, taken by Shiva, his son Coomaar N Carthik and Sharad depict this malady in Gir well. There are shots of the lions – entire prides looking for preys, lazing near riversides, cubs playing; other wildlife in Gir – spotted deer, antelopes, jackals and all manner of birds, as well as the tribals - Maldhari and Siddis.

Shiva says, "People often ask me 'why save the lions?' I tell them lions don't live in isolation. They are part of an ecosystem, an entire web of life. When you save a lion, you rescue a whole chain of animals living in that system. Besides, Singham (lions) are a lasting icon of our ethos – exuding pride, the sentiment of cohabitation and loyalty. Why not save the king of all animals?"

Wildlife lovers oppose move to shift lions to Lion Safari

10-10-2013
Wildlife lovers oppose move to shift lions to Lion Safari
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kanpur/Wildlife-lovers-oppose-move-to-shift-lions-to-Lion-Safari/articleshow/23852509.cms

 Following wildlife lovers' clamour over Asiatic lions, director, Kanpur Zoo Kuruvilla Thomas has said that he was yet to receive any information regarding shifting of the two lions toLion Safari in Etawah. Their shifting is likely to happen in January. Stating that exchange of animals required Central Zoo Authority (CZA) approval which was time taking procedure, he ruled out possibility of fetching more lions from other zoos of the country.

Meanwhile, city-based nature lovers have objected to the shifting of lions as the pair is the centre of attraction among children. Besides, the zoo parted ways with five animals, including a rhino, a pair each of Thamin and Hyena, for the pair of lions.

Neeraj Mishra, a city-based nature-lover expressed anguish over the plan to send lions to Lion Safari. "The Kanpur zoo has sacrificed five of its animals for two Asiatic lions. The lions will be shifted to Lion Safari. The zoo should make fresh efforts to procure another pair of lions so that children are not disappointed," he said.

Reacting angrily over the news of transfer of lions to Lion Safari, Arun Bajpai, another nature-lover said, "This is not done. If the government is setting up a Lion Safari for which it requires lions, they should rope in lions from Hyderabad zoo directly instead of depriving Kanpur zoo ofAsiatic lions which is a sure shot attraction for the visitors, especially the kids."

He also mentioned that by transferring the lions to lion safari, the Kanpur zoo would lose Asiatic lions.

The zoo had lost a pair of Asiatic lions in 2010. Since then the lion enclosure remained deserted. In April, a pair of lions from Hyderabad zoo was brought to Kanpur zoo through exchange programme. The lions became a centre of attraction for the visitors. On the day of the release of the lions in the enclosure, hundreds of visitors had gathered to have a glimpse of the royal beast.

Now when the lions are to be sent to Lion Safari, the hardwork and the efforts put in for the upkeep of the lions would go waste. A series of preparations were done to accommodate the lion pair.

Not only this, a lot is being spent on the upkeep of the two lions especially after lioness Lakshmi was detected to be suffering from disease leptospirosis. Both the lions are given vitamins and other supplements apart from 8 kg meat each day.

Talking to TOI, a zoo staff said that it feels bad to know that these lions would be shifted to Lion Safari. He said that for past seven months these lions had been here and he would miss them when they would be shifted.

"There was no enclosure for the lions to reside here in zoo. The enclosure of tiger Guddu was converted into the adobe for the lions. For Guddu, a new enclosure was made in the zoo for which several thousands of rupees were spent. Also the enclosure for lions was cleaned and sterlised. The moat was repaired and painted", informed the zoo staff."

The zoo staff said that a lot of hardwork was done in sending the Rhino, Thamin deer and Hyena to Hyderabad zoo.

100 lion cubs turn Gir into a roaring success

10-10-2013
100 lion cubs turn Gir into a roaring success
The Economics Times
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/environment/flora-fauna/100-lion-cubs-turn-gir-into-a-roaring-success/articleshow/23842796.cms

Gir, the world's only remaining home of wild Asiatic lions, sees about 80 to 85 new cubs every year.

The cute quotient of Gir is soaring with some 100 lion cubs being sighted in the sanctuary and surrounding areas in the last few days. The number of new arrivals touching the three-figure-mark has elated forest officials, who see it as a stamp of approval of their conservation efforts.

Gir, the world's only remaining home of wild Asiatic lions, sees about 80 to 85 new cubs every year. Studies, however, show that only 56% live to see the third year of their lives. Their first year is the most crucial. This is the first time foresters have seen a substantial jump in cub count, which means more lions are likely to cross that 12-month threshold.

The last census in 2010 had put the number of lions at 411 in the state which included 97 males, 162 females and 152 cubs. The adult population of the pride stood at 62%, up from 48% in 2005. Forest officials said more lionesses meant more cubs.

"We have seen an increase in the number of cubs with each passing year. It is possible only because of the cooperation the forest department gets from villagers and patrolling staff. People immediately inform us if they see an injured cub in the area. This helps reduce mortality," said Gujarat principal chief conservator of forests CN Pandey.

Added deputy conservator of forests Sandeep Kumar, "The chances of visitors sighting the cubs have increased as many of the little ones are in the tourist zone of the forest."

In 2008, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) had removed Gir lions from the critically endangered list and put them in the comparatively healthier endangered list. Foresters are expecting more good news with the latest IUCN report likely to come out soon.

The Supreme Court has ordered Gujarat — much against its wishes — to part with a few of its lions for their relocation to Kuno-Palpur sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh, in the long-term interests of the lions' survival.

Gir safari garners 97 bookings as soon as facility goes online

07-10-2013
Gir safari garners 97 bookings as soon as facility goes online
DNA
http://www.dnaindia.com/ahmedabad/1898278/report-gir-safari-garners-97-bookings-as-soon-as-facility-goes-online

The forest department has already earned Rs1,13,425 from the online bookings.

The online booking for Gir Sanctuary, which was inaugurated on Thursday, seems to have clicked with the tourists as the sanctuary has already garnered 97 bookings for its safari.

Two online bookings were also made for the Devaliya Interpretation Centre.

The online booking was inaugurated by tourism minister, Saurabh Patel, in the presence of Environment and Forest minister, Ganpat Vasava, MoS for Environment and Forest, Govind Patel, and a host of officials from the tourism and forest department.

Speaking at the launch of the function, CN Pandey, Chief Wildlife Warden Gujarat, said, that 50% of the tickets for the jungle safari in Gir Sanctuary can now be booked online.

The rest are available for spot booking. "The booking can be done 90 days in advance. The ticket available for a particular day, if not booked online, will be converted to spot booking tickets the next day," said Pandey.

He said the initiative will soon be extended to other sanctuaries. The payment for the online booking can be done through credit or debit cards.

According to Saurabh Patel, the facility was being made available as per the demands of tourist.

"More than four lakh tourists visited Gir last year. The online facility will make it easier for tourists, particularly foreign tourists to plan their itinerary well in advance. We have reserved 50% of the tickets for spot booking so that those who were not able to book it online could also get a chance to enjoy the sanctuary," said Patel.

A forest department official said that within hours of being launched, 97 bookings for the Gir Safari and two for the Devaliya Interpretation centre have been made. So far, the forest department has earned Rs1,13,425 from the online bookings.

Foreign tourists make 60% of 900 online bookings for Gir

07-10-2013
Foreign tourists make 60% of 900 online bookings for Gir
The Times of India
http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-10-06/ahmedabad/42763255_1_online-bookings-sasan-forest-department

It is as if foreign nationals were waiting for the best chance to book their tryst with Asiatic lions. Even since online bookings began on October 3, over 900 booking have been done and of these 502 were by foreign nationals or from overseas.

Officials said that of the 900 bookings till Friday evening, only 398 are for Indian nationals and of these, over 60% are from outside Gujarat. Officials said that the maximum bookings from within the state were for November 4 to November 8 - New Year to Labh Pacham - when business establishments are closed.

Officials said the Gujarat forest department had launched online booking service precisely in order to facilitate foreigners and those coming from outside Gujarat for a visit to Sasan. The department has launched the online facility and also facilitated payment by credit or debit card for visits to the Gir Interpretation Zones at Sasan and Devaliya this season. The sanctuary reopens on October 15.

On average, the forest department issues 90 permits for each day the sanctuary is open in a season. Of these, 50% permits will be reserved for online bookings, sources said. The remaining will be reserved for on-the-spot bookings which will be issued at the interpretation zone in Sasan.

Deputy conservator of forests (headquarters) Sandeep Kumar said that all 900 bookings are for the Gir sanctuary. He said "in order to keep a check on incidents of cornering of tickets byhotels in and around Gir, we are monitoring the locations from where bookings are done. Also, one mobile number can book one permit only. A person is sent a system-generated code on his mobile after which he can book his permit.

Kumar said the number of bookings on Saturday and Sunday are almost completely booked. There are less than 10 booking left for Saturdays and Sundays and these are mainly by local tourists.

The Forest department on Saturday finally named the five cubs. The male cubs were named as Shardul, Yuvraj and Vanraj while the female cubs will be Heer and Mallika. On October 2, the forest department with the help of villagers and Maldharis had shortlisted 25 names which were put on social media. About 955 people suggested names and most votes were given to Yuvraj, Vanraj and Shardul for males, while for the females it was Heer and Mallika.

For the first time, maldharis and villagers from Sasan took part in a grand ceremony - naamkaran vidhi -in Sasan on the birth anniversary of the father of the nation, which also marked the opening of Wildlife Week.

Lion found dead in Amreli village well

07-10-2013
Lion found dead in Amreli village well
The Times of India
http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-10-06/rajkot/42763254_1_amreli-village-khambha-taluka-amreli-district

A lion was found dead in a farm well on the outskirts of Gidardi village at Khambha taluka of Amreli district.

Sources said its skeletal remains like hair, nails and some other parts body were recovered after a farmer Hakabhai found an animal bone in the water drawn from the well.

Preliminary investigation by forest department officials suggests that the lion may have fallen into the open well around 20 days ago.

Wildlife activists have aired suspicion over its death and have questioned the wild cat's body remaining undetected for around 20 days.

25 names shortlisted for cubs in Sasan

03-10-2013
25 names shortlisted for cubs in Sasan
The Times of India
http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-10-03/ahmedabad/42662933_1_names-maldharis-villagers

After villagers and Maldharis who shortlisted 25 names for the five cubs born to lioness Laxmi on May 17 this year, it is now the turn of the social media to be part of the 'naamkaran vidhi' - the naming ceremony. Of the five cubs, three are male and two female. The 25 shortlisted names have been posted on Facebook and those interested can vote for the five names they like best. The names finally selected for the cubs will be announced on October 4.

For the first time, the Maldharis and villagers from Sasan took part in the 'naamkaran vidhi' held in Sasan on Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary on Wednesday. The Wildlife Week also began in the state on the same day.

Narayanbhai Gadhvi, the oldest person to participate in the naming ceremony, was the first to pick up a name from the box. Laxman Dokadiya echoed what Gadhvi had to say about the event: "This draw of names is something which has never taken place in the past. This has created awareness among villagers and will definitely help in conservation. This event has created greater bonding among people for conservation for the lions."

Deputy conservator of forests, Sandeep Kumar, said the ceremony was attended by 1200 staff members, villagers and even Maldharis from the ness situated within the sanctuary. He said that 25 names out of the several hundred suggested by the people, had been shortlisted. The names have been posted on the social media site, Kumar said.


"Voting by people from the maldhari community such as Narayanbhai Gadhvi, Kadeli Ness; Bharabhai and family of Dudhala Ness; trackers, guides, department staff; Lakshmanbhai Dokadiya, Sarpanch of Sasan-Gir; and finally villagers was taken up and the names posted for final selection," a senior official of the forest department said. He further said that the names of the cubs finally selected will be declared on October 4 when forest minister Ganpat Vasava visits the sanctuary as part of Wildlife Week celebrations.

"We wanted to spread the word about our conservation efforts using this event," said the official. "Laxmi's mother Shyama too gave birth to five cubs on May 3, 2010, at Sakkarbaug Zoo in Junagadh but could raise only three."

Now, book your tryst with Gir lions online

03-10-2013
Now, book your tryst with Gir lions online
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Now-book-your-tryst-with-Gir-lions-online/articleshow/23452721.cms

The Gujarat forest department has launched a website to enable visitors to book permits and make payments online.

If you want to spend some time in Gir in the company of Asiatic lions, you need not worry about long queues anymore. You can book a permit online and also pay using a credit card for visits to "Gir interpretation zones" atSasan and Devaliya from this season. The sanctuary reopens for visitors on October 15. The forest department has launched a website to enable visitors to book permits and makepayments online.

Officials said a link to the forest department website will also be available on the tourism department website. The new portal will be helpful to all potential visitors who have access to the internet, particularly foreign nationals. It will also help visitors plan their trip early, sources said.

On an average, the forest department issues 90 permits on each day the sanctuary is open in a season. Of these, 50% permits will be reserved for online booking, sources said. The remaining permits will be reserved for on-the-spot booking which will be issued at the 'interpretation zone' in Sasan.

However, in Devaliya interpretation zone, there will be no such cap on permits as all tourists are permitted to go inside, sources said. In Devaliya there is no restriction on the number of visitors and hence a person will be able to get as many permits as he wants. Further, when the total number of permits is increased, it will be simultaneously increased for online customers, officials said.

Once a payment is made online, a virtual receipt will appear on the computer and the visitor can a take a printout of this receipt. When he comes to Sasan, the visitor just has to show the printout and a route would be allotted to him, officials of the forest department said.

Earlier, the department had introduced a facility to make a visit to Gir easy. The department had introduced a 'turn system' for taxi drivers and even guides. This had saved tourists unnecessary negotiation and the harassment of being chased by tour operators. Also identity cards and dresses were given to taxi drivers and guides for easy identification.

Gir sanctuary sees 10 cases of illegal hunting in last 3 yrs

02-10-2013
Gir sanctuary sees 10 cases of illegal hunting in last 3 yrs
The Indian Express
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/gir-sanctuary-sees-10-cases-of-illegal-hunting-in-last-3-yrs/1177229/

In the Gir sanctuary, there have been 10 incidences of illegal wild animals huntings in which 27 persons have been caught during the last three years for killing the national bird - peacocks, chinkara and other animals living in the protected area. During the same period, 87 lions also died due to natural causes within the sanctuary, the Gujarat Legislative Assembly was told on Tuesday.

In a written reply to an unstarred question posed by Congress MLA Paresh Dhanani, the state government has stated that 10 cases of illegal hunting of chinkara, cheetal, peacocks and a three different kinds of birds were registered in which two people are yet to be arrested.

The government has stated that seven cases involving 24 people are in the courts, while in one case an advance recovery of Rs 26,500 has been made and the three of the accused have been freed.

In order to avoid such criminal activities in the sanctuary, the government has equipped the forest staff with revolvers, 12 bore gun, wireless and mobile sets, walkie-talkies, four-wheelers and motorcycles, the reply stated.

Lions scale new heights in Junagadh

01-10-2013
Lions scale new heights in Junagadh
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/rajkot/Lions-scale-new-heights-in-Junagadh/articleshow/23323175.cms

The roar of Asiatic lions is echoing on hill tops now. Thewildcat, which is known only to hunt on plains, has actually scaled right up to Datar, the hill shrine located at a height of 3,600 feet from the sea level.

A group of lions, one male and two lionesses, recently climbed Datar hills and killed domestic cattle. Forest officials and locals said this was the first such instance of lions reaching such a height to prey.

"I have been living here since last four decades, but have never seen lions at the peak on Datar hills. This is the first time that lions killed our domestic animals kept at the cattleshed," mahant Vitthal Bapu of Jamiyal Shah Datar hills shrine (known as Upla Datar) told TOI. Vitthal Bapu said the lions stayed on the hilltop for three days. Datar hills area falls under Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, where there are around 35 Asiatic lions.

Range forest officer, south range, Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Parbat Maru said, "We were surprised on receiving the message about lions killing domestic animals at this height. We have never come across such a case where lions have actually climbed up to the peak of a hill."

Forest officials believe that lions may have climbed Datar hills from Dungarpur direction and through Khodiyar Ghuna area.

According to forest officials, lions migrated from Gir forest towards Girnar and settled down here two decades ago. The state government declared it as wildlife sanctuary in 2008.

"This news is surprising as well as positive as lions have acquainted themselves with mountainous areas too," another senior forest official said. As per the last census of Asiatic lions, there are 411 lions in Gir, the last abode of Asiatic lions.

Naming ceremony for Asiatic cubs

01-10-2013
Naming ceremony for Asiatic cubs
Deccan Herald
http://www.deccanherald.com/content/360423/naming-ceremony-asiatic-cubs.html

In the first of its kind initiative, villagers in Sasan –home to Asiatic lions— will hold a "namkaran vidhi" (naming ceremony) to christen five lion cubs born on May 17 this year. These cubs were born to Lioness Laxmi.

As per the traditional Gujarati ritual observed by villagers, the names of all the five cubs that have survived the first four months and weigh around 11 kg will be decided by the pick of the lots.

The ceremony scheduled for October 2, will kick-start the Wildlife Week and will comprise a series of events including rallies and seminars on the theme of conservation. Forest officials admit that it was indeed rare for a lioness to give birth to five cubs and their survival is equally significant.

  "Through this naming ceremony we intend to generate awareness about the steps taken to conserve wildlife, especially in the Lion sanctuary," said a forest official. Pointing out this ceremony, Gujarat's chief wildlife warden, C N Pandey said,  "Like traditional Gujarati families this ceremony will be officiated by 'foibas' or buas (elderly paternal aunts) from Sasan village.'' These women will pick up a chit with name written for each cub.  

Officials added that such ceremonies would definitely attract more tourist and generate an awareness about Lion conservation. Forest officials said that Lioness Laxmi's mother, Shayama also had given birth to five cubs earlier in 2010. Gir has seen a substantial growth in the number of tourists. While some attribute growth to superstar Amitabh Bachchan's campaign, some  says it is because of the possible translocation of the Asiatic lions to MP from Gujarat.

 Official figures of the tourism department pointed out that the number of tourists in 2010 was 1.29 lakh, which increased to 4.60 lakh in 2012-2013. Noticing the increasing interest amongst visitors, the forest department has also added the number of permits per day in Sasan from 90 to 115 per day.

Construction of breeding dens picks up in Lion Safari

01-10-2013
Construction of breeding dens picks up in Lion Safari
The Times of India
http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-09-30/kanpur/42535059_1_lion-safari-master-layout-plan-breeding-centre

The construction of the special breeding dens is picking up in the Lion Safari at Fisher Reserve Forest area on the outskirts of Etawah district and the place may soon reverberate with roars of Asiatic lions.

The Central Zoo Authority (CZA) had approved the designs of the special breeding dens on January 18 to be built at the breeding centre and deliberated on February 5 on the master plan for breeding centre-cum-lion safari.

Lion Safari director Gurmeet Singh, under whose supervision, the project is underway, said that the work on four special breeding dens and a veterinary hospital, housing colony for safari staff, besides two over-head water tanks is heading towards completion.

In the special breeding dens, lions from other areas would be brought and kept for breeding, said Singh.

The construction work as at the breeding centre is likely to be completed by December. Two pairs of lion presently kept at Lucknow and Kanpur zoos will arrive here by January next year. "Our plan is to introduce nearly 8 to 12 lions, when the safari starts. For this, we have already asked Sakarbaug Zoo authorities in Junagadh for 10 more lions, but four will be sent in the first phase. At present, we are in the process of getting four lions, two males and two females from there. These may be airlifted," a senior official said.

There would be around 12 special breeding dens at the safari with minimum human interference and the royal beasts would get a secluded ambience. The especially designed breeding dens would keep the mortality rate under check.

With this project, Etawah will be one of the most sought-after tourist spots in the state, added district magistrate P Guru Prasad.

The project was mooted by the Samajwadi Party government in 2005. Some 150 hectares of land in Fisher Reserve Forest on Etawah-Gwalior national highway was acquired and notified as Lion Safari, the same year.

However, it was shelved by Mayawati government in 2007. It was again revived after SP came back to power in March 2012. The Union ministry of environment and forest approved the master layout plan of the project in December 2012. The lion breeding centre in Etawah would be the third in the country after Junagadh and Rajkot.

The state government had sanctioned Rs 89 crores for the lion safari project. The government had made UP Awas Vikas Parishad as the construction and executing agency for the lion safari.

Fight over lion fans stir in Gir Somnath

01-10-2013
Fight over lion fans stir in Gir Somnath
The Indian Express
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/fight-over-lion-fans-stir-in-gir-somnath/1176718/0

Even as the state government is waging a legal battle in the Supreme Court against the proposed translocation of Asiatic lions from their last abode in Gir forest in Junagadh district, a new turf war has erupted over the issue in Junagadh itself. Residents of Sasan Gir, the village famous for lion safaris and headquarters of forest area, have threatened not to allow tourists enter the area if the village is not retained in its original taluka of Talala.

Gir sanctuary is due to reopen to tourists in the second week of October.

BJP leaders in Junagadh are demanding that Sasan Gir, the village on the western border of Gir forest and once part of Talala taluka, be retained in Junagadh to keep the cultural identity of the district intact. However, residents of Sasan Gir and two other villages, Bhalchhel and Haripur, are opposed to the move, claiming they would be at a disadvantage and hence, want to be with Gir Somnath district.

Chief Minister Narendra Modi had announced the creation of Gir Somnath district a year ago by halving Junagadh to bring administration closer to residents of coastal talukas of Una, Veraval, Kodinar, Sutrapada and Talala. Trouble began when the state government issued a formal notification on August 13 about Gir Somnath, declaring entire Talala taluka as its part. The move did not go down well with local politicians in Junagadh. They feared Junagadh would lose its identity as Gir forest with lions, famous Kesar mango of Talala, Somnath temple near Veraval and cement factories in Kodinar and Sutrapada, besides a long coastline would now be part of the new district.

Sasan Gir hosts the office of deputy conservator of forest, wildlife division, Junagadh circle. Tourists have to take permission of the DCF for safaris in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary to watch lions in the wild. Similarly, Gir Interpretation Zone, a safari park in Devaliya, is located on the border of Haripur and Hiranvel villages in Talala taluka.

BJP MLA from Junagadh Mahendra Mashru and local party leaders made representation to ministers Anandi Patel, Saurabh Patel and Nitin Patel after the August notification. "We explained to the government that when Porbandar was carved out of Junagadh in 1997, we lost the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. With the creation of Gir Somnath, we lost Gir forest to the new district. Mount Girnar and Gir forest are cultural and geographical identity of Junagadh," Mashru said.

Apparently accepting their representation, the state government issued another notification on September 9, axing the three villages from Talala taluka and merging them with Mendarda taluka of Junagadh. But residents of these three villages started protesting their annexation to Mendarda and submitted a memorandum to Talala mamlatdar. Their contention was that Mendarda town was more than 30 km away from their villages while Talala only 12 km. They started a indefinite hunger strike at Sasan Gir from Thursday.

"We have no problem being part of Junagadh or Gir Somnath. Our demand is to keep Talala taluka intact and Talala town our taluka headquarters. We don't mind if the entire taluka is retained in Junagadh," said Devayat Vadher, Congress member of Talala taluka panchayat.

Mendarda, Visavadar and Junagadh, all talukas of Junagadh district, form parts of Gir forest. Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary in Junagadh town is home to 24 lions as per the 2010 census. "Junagadh has more lions than Gir Somnath. Residents of these three villages are subjected to harassment due to whimsical decision of a few people in Junagadh," said Vadher, who is spearheading the agitation. To intensify their agitation, the protesters have given a call for bandh in Talala taluka on Tuesday.

Ceremony to baptize 5 Sasan Simbas

29-09-2013
Ceremony to baptize 5 Sasan Simbas
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Ceremony-to-baptize-5-Sasan-Simbas/articleshow/23190936.cms

In their last abode Saurashtra, Asiatic lions have lent their name to humans with many communities using the suffix 'sinh'. For the first time, however, villagers in Sasan will hold a grand ceremony - naamkaran vidhi - to name five cubs born to lioness Laxmi on May 17 this year.

Following a traditional Gujarati ritual observed by villagers, the names of the five cubs — all of whom have survived the first four months and weigh around 11 kg — will be decided by picking up chits.

Foresters and villagers alike are busy preparing for the naming ceremony to be held on October 2. The state forest department has decided to kick start the Wild Life Week with this ceremony. This will be followed up by a series of events including rallies and seminars on the issue of conservation. It is rare for a lioness to give birth to five cubs and their survival is equally significant . "We want to spread the word about our conservation efforts using this event," says C N Pandey, Gujarat's chief wildlife warden. Laxmi's mother Shyama too gave birth to five cubs on May 3, 2010, at Sakkarbaug Zoo in Junagadh but could raise only three.

Like traditional Gujarati families, this ceremony will be officiated by 'foibas' or 'buas' - elderly women from Sasan village. These women will pick up a chit with name written for each cub.

Gir has seen a substantial increase growth in the number of tourists triggered by an aggressive campaign led by superstar Amitabh Bachchan. The number of tourists was 1.29 lakh in 2010 has increased to 4.60 lakh in 2012-13 . The forest department has also increased the number of permit per day in Sasan from 90 to 115 per day.