Centre For Envir. Law, Wwf-I vs U O I & Ors

The Supreme Court recognized the necessity of establishing a second home for the Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica) to ensure its long-term survival, as supported by extensive research conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) under the Ministry of Environment and Forests. The Court emphasized the intrinsic value of wildlife and upheld the recommendation for the re-introduction of Asiatic lions to Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary, citing the need for a comprehensive rehabilitation package and long-term commitment to conservation efforts. The ruling mandates the State of Madhya Pradesh to proceed with the relocation of Asiatic lions to Kuno, thereby reinforcing eco-centric principles in wildlife conservation.