In a positive turn of events, twelve Asiatic lions from Gir National Park in Gujarat have recovered from a tick-borne parasitic infection and have been released back into their natural habitat. This follows a concerning outbreak in late May that resulted in the deaths of eleven lions, primarily due to babesiosis, a disease caused by parasites that attack red blood cells, leading to weakened immunity. The Gujarat Forest Department had quarantined 17 lions showing symptoms, with five still under observation. Minister for Forest and Environment Arjun Modhwadia confirmed that the situation is under control and assured that there is no threat to the overall lion population, which has seen a significant increase from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025. The department is actively working on health measures, including de-ticking and deworming initiatives for both lions and local cattle, to prevent future outbreaks. Conservationists remain vigilant, especially after a recent death of a pregnant lioness due to complications unrelated to the infection outbreak.