Cheetah Population in Kuno National Park Rises to 17 as Gamini and Her Four Cubs Released into the Wild

Boost for Tourism in Chambal Region, Says CM Dr. Mohan Yadav

Sheopur, March 17 – The cheetah population in Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh, has increased significantly as female cheetah Gamini and her four cubs were released into the Khajuri tourism zone on Monday afternoon. With this, the number of cheetahs roaming freely in the open jungle has risen to 17, while only nine cheetahs remain in enclosures.

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav hailed this as a historic day for India’s cheetah reintroduction project and wildlife conservation efforts. “The successful release of Gamini and her cubs marks another milestone in our mission to restore cheetahs to Indian soil. This intercontinental project, bringing cheetahs from South Africa to Kuno, is not only a national but also an Asian conservation success story,” he stated in a social media post.

Significant Step Towards Wildlife Conservation & Tourism Growth

The Madhya Pradesh Forest Department and Kuno National Park authorities have worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth integration of these cheetahs into the wild. Dr. Yadav emphasized that more cheetahs are now in the open jungle than in enclosures, increasing the likelihood of sightings for visitors.

“This will significantly boost tourism in the region, creating employment opportunities and strengthening the economy of the Chambal area,” he added.

Kuno’s Expanding Cheetah Population

According to DFO R. Thirukurul, this is the second major release this year. On February 5, another female cheetah, Jwala, and her four cubs were also set free. The release of Gamini and her cubs follows successful trials with previously released cheetahs, including Dhira, Asha, and their offspring.

Gamini had originally given birth to six cubs on March 10, 2024, but unfortunately, two did not survive. Since then, she and her remaining four cubs had been kept in a secured enclosure. To facilitate tracking and monitoring, all five cheetahs were fitted with radio collars before their release.

Cheetahs Now Roaming Freely in Tourism Zones

Authorities have strategically chosen Khajuri Forest Area in the Ahira tourism zone for their release. This area is known for its abundant prey and natural habitat, making it an ideal environment for cheetahs.

With cheetahs now freely roaming Tik-Toli, Ahira, and Peepalwadi zones, tourists have higher chances of spotting these majestic animals during safaris. Visitors entering from Tik-Toli Gate will have an opportunity to witness cheetahs in their natural surroundings, alongside rivers, waterfalls, and other scenic landscapes.

Kuno’s Cheetah Conservation Project in Numbers

• Total cheetahs in Kuno: 26
• Cheetahs now in the open wild: 17
• Cheetahs still in enclosures: 9
• Cubs born in Kuno: Multiple successful births recorded

Authorities remain optimistic that these reintroductions will pave the way for a thriving cheetah population in India, enhancing both conservation efforts and wildlife tourism.

Future of Cheetah Conservation in India

The Indian government’s ambitious Cheetah Reintroduction Program aims to establish a self-sustaining cheetah population in the country, making Kuno a global success story in wildlife conservation. With rigorous tracking, habitat monitoring, and local community involvement, experts believe the project will yield long-term ecological and economic benefits.