Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife on March 3rd in Gir, Gujarat, unveiling transformative conservation initiatives. For the first time, India released a riverine dolphin estimation report, revealing a population of 6,327, highlighting efforts to protect aquatic ecosystems.

In a major move, the PM laid the foundation stone for the National Referral Centre for Wildlife in Junagadh, reinforcing research and conservation infrastructure.

He also announced the 16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation in 2025 and the establishment of a Centre of Excellence at SACON, Coimbatore, to address human-wildlife conflicts.

India's ambitious cheetah reintroduction project is set to expand to Gandhisagar Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh and Banni Grasslands in Gujarat. Strengthening conservation further, a dedicated project for Gharials and a National Great Indian Bustard Conservation Action Plan were also introduced.

PM Modi emphasized the use of AI, machine learning, remote sensing, and geospatial mapping to combat forest fires and human-animal conflicts. Stressing the importance of sustainable wildlife tourism, he called for enhanced connectivity and accessibility.

Recognizing traditional wisdom in conservation, the PM urged the documentation of regional knowledge, particularly Gir's lion and leopard conservation success, for application in other national parks.

By integrating technology with indigenous wisdom, India’s wildlife conservation efforts are set to enter a new era of sustainability and innovation.