Bhopal, Feb 21 (NationPress) The government of Madhya Pradesh announced on Saturday that the successful reintegration of cheetahs into Kuno National Park signifies a notable advancement in India's wildlife conservation initiatives. This development suggests that the cheetah population is steadily reestablishing its role within the nation's forest ecosystem.

A press statement from the state government highlighted that the survival of breeding females, the emergence of second-generation cubs, and the gradual adaptation to new habitats are indicators of positive results from the cheetah reintroduction program.

The birth of second-generation cubs within Kuno National Park and Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is a significant milestone in the execution of Project Cheetah.

“Although some cheetahs have succumbed to natural causes and faced adaptation challenges in the initial years, the surviving individuals have shown remarkable adaptation to Indian climate, prey availability, and ecological conditions. This reflects consistent progress towards the project's long-term viability,” the government stated.

Female cheetah Gamini has recently welcomed her second litter, with three healthy sub-adult cubs from her first litter and three new cubs born.

Meanwhile, another female, Veera, is currently exploring open forest areas with her 13-month-old cub, and Nirva, along with her three 10-month-old cubs, is being closely monitored within a protected enclosure.

Out of the eight cheetahs relocated from Namibia, three remain in Kuno National Park and are reported to be in good health. The twelve cubs born to these Namibian cheetahs are also thriving.

Between 2023 and 2026, 39 cubs were born in Kuno, of which 27 are still alive, as per government reports.

Among the twelve cheetahs moved from South Africa, eight have adjusted well to the Kuno habitat, while three have been relocated to Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary. Ten cubs born to South African cheetahs are currently alive.

Additionally, Mukhi, the first cheetah born in India under the project to reach maturity, has given birth to five cubs, marking a pivotal advancement in the initiative.

The government mentioned that Project Cheetah has also fostered increased public engagement in wildlife conservation.

“Over 450 ‘Cheetah Mitras’ have been trained to assist with conservation efforts, generating employment opportunities that contribute to local livelihoods and community involvement,” the government stated.

The objective is to establish a self-sustaining population of 60 to 70 cheetahs across nearly 17,000 square kilometers by 2032. A conservation breeding center is planned to be established in the Banni grasslands of Gujarat.