Cheetah Reintroduction Project at Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary

cheetah reintroduction Project at Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary

The Madhya Pradesh government has successfully completed preparations for its ambitious cheetah reintroduction project at Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary will serve as the second home for cheetahs in India, following Kuno National Park (KNP). This significant development was confirmed by an official announcement on Tuesday.

Prior to this, preparations and assessment teams from Kenya and South Africa visited Gandhi Sagar to evaluate the conditions and feasibility of the project. Following these evaluations, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav chaired a wildlife board meeting, confirming that all necessary preparations had been finalized.

Key Developments in the Project

• Relocation of Prey Animals: To support the cheetah population, cheetals have been reintroduced from Kanha and other regions. Additionally, 50 gaurs (Indian bisons) have been successfully relocated from Kanha and Satpura Tiger Reserves to the Sanjay Tiger Reserve in Sidhi district.
• Cheetah Reintroduction History: On September 17, 2022, eight Namibian cheetahs—five females and three males—were released into enclosures at Kuno National Park. In February 2023, 12 more cheetahs were brought from South Africa. Currently, 13 of the 20 adult cheetahs have survived, and 13 cubs have been born, bringing the total population in Kuno to 26.

Future Prospects

During the recent meeting, the Chief Minister directed officials to study the feasibility of introducing rhinos and other rare and endangered wild animals into the forests of Madhya Pradesh. This initiative highlights the state’s dedication to wildlife conservation and biodiversity enhancement.

Conclusion

The successful preparation of Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary as the second home for cheetahs marks a significant milestone in India’s wildlife conservation efforts. Through international collaboration and meticulous planning, Madhya Pradesh is setting a precedent in wildlife management and reintroduction projects, promising a brighter future for endangered species in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the purpose of the cheetah reintroduction project at Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary?
Answer: The project aims to establish a second home for cheetahs in India, enhancing wildlife conservation and biodiversity in the region.

Q2. How many cheetahs were introduced to Kuno National Park initially?
Answer: Eight Namibian cheetahs were initially released into Kuno National Park on September 17, 2022, followed by 12 more from South Africa in February 2023.

Q3. What measures are taken to support the cheetah population?
Answer: Prey animals, such as cheetals and gaurs, have been relocated from various tiger reserves to ensure a sustainable food source for the cheetahs.

Q4. What future plans does the Madhya Pradesh government have for wildlife conservation?
Answer: The government plans to explore the feasibility of introducing rhinos and other endangered species into Madhya Pradesh's forests.

Q5. Why is the cheetah reintroduction project significant for India?
Answer: It represents a major step forward in wildlife conservation efforts, promoting biodiversity and the management of endangered species in India.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary goal of the cheetah reintroduction project in Madhya Pradesh?
A) To increase tourism
B) To enhance wildlife conservation
C) To manage forest resources
D) To promote local culture
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: How many cheetahs were initially released into Kuno National Park?
A) 5
B) 8
C) 12
D) 20
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: From which countries were the cheetahs sourced for the reintroduction project?
A) Kenya and Tanzania
B) Namibia and South Africa
C) India and Nepal
D) Uganda and Botswana
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What animal has been relocated to support the cheetah population?
A) Elephants
B) Gaurs
C) Tigers
D) Leopards
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Which wildlife sanctuary will be the second home for cheetahs in India?
A) Kuno National Park
B) Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary
C) Kanha National Park
D) Bandhavgarh National Park
Correct Answer: B