Organized by: Department of Geography, Dharmendrasinhji Arts College, Rajkot Date: 1th August 2025 Time: 09:00 - 11:00 AM Venue: Department of Geography World Lion Day is celebrated globally every year on 10th August to raise awareness about the conservati and protection of lions, one of the most majestic species in the animal kingdom. On this occasion, the Department of Geography, Dharmendrasinhji Arts College, Rajkot, under the leadership of Principal -Paresh Rawal Sir and the guidance of Chairman of the Department - Shri S. R. Bhardwaj Sir, organized a special program on 11th August 2025 to mark this significant day. The program was coordinated by Riteshkumar P. Patel and co-coordinated by Nikunj H. Vagh.  Objective of the Program The main objective of the celebration was to spread awareness among students about the ecological and cultural importance of lions, with a special focus on the Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica), which survives only in the Gir Forest of Gujarat. The program aimed at highlighting conservation challenges and encouraging youth participation in wildlife protection.  Program Highlights The two-hour session included a variety of engaging and informative activities: 1. Expert Lectures - Eminent speakers delivered lectures on the historical, cultural, and ecological significance of lions. Special emphasis was given to the status of the Asiatic lion, its habitat in Gujarat, and the success story of its conservation in Gir National Park. The lectures also covered global lion populations and the threats they face due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. 2. Poster Making Competition - Students actively participated by creating awareness posters depicting themes such as "Save the King of the Jungle," "Conservation of Asiatic Lions," and "Harmony between Humans and Wildlife." The competition brought out the creativity of students and their deep concern for wildlife protection. No. Name 1 JAGOT SHAHINA R. - MA Sem 01 (Rank – 01) 2 VADHEL HARSH KUMAR G. BA Sem 01 (Rank – 01) 3 MAKVANA SIDDHI J. - MA Sem 01 (Rank – 02) 4 BATHAVAR SHIVAM V. - BA Sem 01 (Rank – 02) 5 GOHIL HARDIK M. - BA Sem 05 (Rank – 03) 6 JETHAV KARAN M - BA Sem 05 (Rank – 03) 3. MCQ Test - To test and enhance students' knowledge, an interactive multiple-choice question (MCQ) test was organized. The questions covered facts about lions worldwide and specific details about the Gir lions of Gujarat. This activity helped to instill curiosity and improve awareness among participants. No. Name 1 PARMAR RUMIT R. (BA Sem 01) Rank – 01 2 VAGHELA VANRAJ R. (BA Sem 05) Rank – 02 3 BHOJANI HARSHAD L. (BA Sem 01) Rank – 03  Information Shared During the Event During the program, detailed information was shared regarding: • The global distribution of lions, particularly in Africa, where they are primarily found in savannahs and grasslands. • The unique position of Gujarat, as the only place in the world where Asiatic lions exist in the wild. Once spread across Asia, these lions are now confined to the Gir Forest and surrounding areas. • Conservation efforts by the Government of Gujarat and the Forest Department, which have successfully increased the lion population in recent decades. • The cultural and historical significance of lions in India, where they symbolize strength, courage, and pride. The emblem of India itself features lions from the Ashokan pillar at Sarnath, underlining their importance in the nation's identity. The celebration of World Lion Day at Dharmendrasinhji Arts College was both educational and inspiring. The activities created awareness among students about the urgent need to conserve lions and their habitats. The expert lectures, creative poster-making, and knowledge-based MCQ test ensured active participation and enriched the learning experience. The Department of Geography successfully organized the program under the leadership of the Principal and faculty members. The event concluded with a collective message: "Protect the Pride of Gujarat, Save the Asiatic Lion." (Report - World Lion Day - 11-08-2025 https://dhcollege.ac.in/notes.php?id=1502)