- Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced a rehabilitation and relocation scheme for Maldharis (pastoralist community) residing in the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary. - Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is being developed as the second home for Asiatic lions. - The relocation scheme aims to reduce human-animal conflict, minimize ecological pressure on the sanctuary, and ensure structured rehabilitation for the pastoralists. - The initiative aligns with broader conservation efforts to expand the geographic distribution of Asiatic lions beyond their primary habitat in Gir. - **Barda Wildlife Sanctuary:** A protected area located in Gujarat spanning Porbandar and Devbhumi Dwarka districts, designated as the second home for Asiatic lions to expand their range beyond the Gir Forest. - **Maldharis:** A traditional pastoralist community residing in Gujarat's forests, known for livestock rearing, whose voluntary relocation from protected areas aims to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. **Introduction** Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced a comprehensive relocation and rehabilitation package for the Maldhari pastoralist community living inside the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, which has been designated as the second home for Asiatic lions. The scheme aims to balance wildlife conservation goals—such as expanding lion habitats and mitigating human-wildlife conflict—with the socio-economic welfare and rights of local pastoralist communities. **Core Issue and Detailed Points** - Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel announced a rehabilitation and relocation scheme for Maldharis (pastoralist community) residing in the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary. - Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is being developed as the second home for Asiatic lions. - The relocation scheme aims to reduce human-animal conflict, minimize ecological pressure on the sanctuary, and ensure structured rehabilitation for the pastoralists. - The initiative aligns with broader conservation efforts to expand the geographic distribution of Asiatic lions beyond their primary habitat in Gir. **Key Statutory Bodies, Acts & Concepts** - **Barda Wildlife Sanctuary:** A protected area located in Gujarat spanning Porbandar and Devbhumi Dwarka districts, designated as the second home for Asiatic lions to expand their range beyond the Gir Forest. - **Maldharis:** A traditional pastoralist community residing in Gujarat's forests, known for livestock rearing, whose voluntary relocation from protected areas aims to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.