Gandhinagar, Mar 5 (UNI) The population of famous Asiatic Lions has increased by 32 in the Gir Sanctuary, Gujarat Forest Minister Mangubhai Patel said during the Question Hour today.

Mr Patel said during the census held in 2001, the lion population was 327, while 359 lions, showing increase of 32, were spotted during the 2005 census.

The Forest Minister said with the increase in population of lions and other wild animals in the Gir Sanctuary, the State Forest Department will do a survey to extend the geographical limits of the Sanctuary to protect the precious wildcats.

However, Mr Patel denied allegations raised by Opposition Congress members that lions and other wild animals were entering into nearby towns and cities in search of food and water. The department was ensuring that the lions and others got enough food, water and forest environment to meet the needs, he added.

The Minister admitted that in some stray incidents, the wild animals had attacked humans. In such cases, those who sustained minor injuries were given compensation of Rs 5,000, for serious injuries Rs 20,000 and in case of death Rs 100,000 were paid, Mr Patel said.

UNI