On Thursday, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel introduced a new initiative aimed at facilitating the voluntary relocation of Maldharis, a semi-nomadic pastoral community, from the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary located in the Porbandar and Devbhumi Dwarka districts. This initiative is part of a broader effort to establish a ‘second home’ for Asiatic lions in the region.
The government has outlined that eligible families who choose to relocate will receive a financial assistance package of Rs 15 lakh. This amount is intended to support their transition outside the sanctuary’s boundaries.
Covering an area of 192.31 square kilometers, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the Maldharis, who have traditionally inhabited the land designated as a sanctuary.
CM Patel made this announcement during the celebration of the 77th Van Mahotsav in Porbandar.
An official statement highlighted that, in accordance with the guidelines set by the National Tiger Conservation Authority, the entire Rs 15 lakh will be provided to each eligible family in a single payment. Following their voluntary relocation, these families will not retain any rights or claims in the Barda area, and no additional financial support will be offered thereafter.
The Chief Minister’s announcement included provisions for housing, stating that each relocating family will receive a free plot of land measuring 100 square yards, subject to relevant regulations. The designated District Collector or a District-Level Committee will facilitate the allocation of land near any village outside the sanctuary and Eco-Sensitive Zone, ensuring it is at least 10 kilometers from municipal corporation boundaries and 5 kilometers from municipality limits.
For families with livestock, the scheme allows for the provision of a plot of up to 100 square yards, tailored to their needs. The market value of this land will be subtracted from the Rs 15 lakh assistance provided to the family.
The definition of a family within the context of this scheme will align with the standards established by the National Tiger Conservation Authority.
To oversee and assess the implementation of this initiative, a state-level committee has been formed, led by the Principal Secretary of the Forest and Environment Department. Additionally, district-level committees will be chaired by the respective District Collectors.
The state government anticipates that the voluntary relocation of the Maldharis will significantly reduce human impact on the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, thereby benefiting wildlife conservation efforts. The initiative is expected to help relocating families integrate into mainstream society, offering them improved livelihood prospects, enhanced access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
According to the 2025 Lion Estimation for Gujarat, there are currently 891 Asiatic lions in the core areas of Gir and Greater Gir in Saurashtra, with Barda recognized as a new satellite population, housing 17 lions.
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