Current Affairs - State - Discussion

Gujarat has restructured the Porbandar forest division to strengthen forest management and facilitate the development of Barda as a second habitat for Asiatic lions. The move follows the natural return of Asiatic lions to Barda after 143 years and comes amid a significant increase in the state’s lion population. According to the May 2026 census, Gujarat recorded 891 Asiatic lions, compared with 674 in 2020. Barda is located in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat and is being developed as an alternative habitat to reduce dependence on the Gir landscape. The restructuring includes new forest ranges and beats, additional personnel, and improved wildlife management responsibilities.