India: Lion Kills 5-Year-Old – Lion Population Increasing

A five-year-old boy was killed by a lion in the Indian state of Gujarat, near his home. The incident occurred while the child was playing with his siblings in a field.

The young Pulsing Ajnera was one of seven people killed by lions in India in June 2025. Attacks on cattle have nearly doubled in the same period, according to officials.

Asiatic lions, which once roamed the Middle East and Asia, are now mainly found in Gujarat. Their population has increased by 30% in the last five years.

Ecologists point to a unique human-lion relationship, where locals benefit from the presence of lions. However, the increasing lion population is testing this relationship.

Gir National Park was established in 1965 to protect endangered species, including Asiatic lions. Most lions now live outside the park boundaries, increasing attacks on humans and animals.

Ravi Chellam and other ecologists are urging the government to move some lions to a second habitat, the Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary.

Despite efforts for coexistence, some residents report an increase in attacks on cattle and express fears for their safety.

Source: CNN.gr