What is Project Cheetah?
Introduce African cheetahs to India to conserve the species and restore savanna ecosystems.
Establish a viable population in Kuno National Park and eventually in other suitable areas, improving ecosystem health and local eco-tourism.
The Phase-1 of the project started in 2022, to restore the population of cheetahs, which were declared extinct in the country in 1952.
It involves the translocation of cheetahs from South Africa and Namibia to Kuno National Park
The project is implemented by the NTCA in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department, and Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
Under Phase-2 of the Project India is considering sourcing cheetahs from Kenya due to similar habitats.
Cheetahs will be translocated to Kuno National Park and Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary (Madhya Pradesh).
Why are the African cheetahs in captivity?
Cheetahs were kept in captivity longer than planned due to delays and extended quarantine periods.
Prolonged captivity is seen as an attempt to mitigate mortality risks but can make cheetahs unfit for the wild.
Why did so many cheetahs die after moving?
Some cheetahs had pre-existing health problems, while others died from environmental stress or disease.
Poor health management and inadequate adaptation to the new environment contributed to their deaths.
Why are the cheetahs located in Kuno?
Kuno National Park was chosen due to its suitable habitat and prey base for cheetahs.
There are delays in releasing cheetahs due to ongoing issues with captivity and facility readiness.
Who is responsible for the cheetahs?
An expert committee chaired by Rajesh Gopal oversees the project.
NTCA (National Tiger Conservation Authority), MoEFCC (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change), and the Wildlife Institute of India handle decision-making and technical support.
Will Project Cheetah have measurable outcomes?
Short-Term Goals: Include a 50% survival rate in the first year, establishing home ranges, successful wild reproduction, and ecotourism benefits.
Long-Term Goals: Aim for a stable, self-sustaining population and improved ecosystem health, though current issues delay meeting these goals
Does Project Cheetah have a sunset clause?
The project doesn’t have a specific end date but has long-term goals spanning 15-40 years.
Achieving a viable population and effective habitat management will determine the project’s success over time.
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