Nine Cheetahs Translocated from Botswana Released into Kuno National Park under Project Cheetah
In a significant boost to India's cheetah reintroduction program, nine cheetahs from Botswana were released into enclosures at Kuno National Park (KNP) in Madhya Pradesh. This is the third batch of big cats brought from Africa, bringing India's total cheetah population to 48. The group includes six females and three males. While the project has faced challenges, including the deaths of 21 animals (adults and cubs) due to various causes, officials remain optimistic. Future plans include expanding the reintroduction to the Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary to manage the population across different habitats and ensure long-term survival.
Key Points
- Project Cheetah is the world's first intercontinental large wild carnivore translocation project aimed at restoring the species in India.
- The new batch consists of nine cheetahs donated by Botswana during President Droupadi Murmu's visit to the country last year.
- Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh is the primary site, but Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is being prepared as a second home to avoid over-concentration.
- Continuous monitoring using tracking collars and specialized veterinary teams is being implemented to ensure the health and adaptation of the animals.
- The total population of 48 includes 28 Indian-born cubs and 20 adults translocated from African nations.
Exam Facts
- Total cheetah population in India currently stands at 48, including 28 Indian-born cubs.
- Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Mandsaur and Neemuch districts of Madhya Pradesh.
- The first batch of cheetahs arrived from Namibia in September 2022, followed by a second batch from South Africa in February 2023.
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