Cheetah Reintroduction Project Expands to Banni Grasslands and Gandhisagar Sanctuary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Why in News? | Expansion of the Cheetah Reintroduction Project beyond Kuno National Park to Banni Grasslands (Gujarat) and Gandhisagar Sanctuary (Madhya Pradesh). |
| Background | Cheetahs declared extinct in India in 1952 due to hunting and habitat loss. The project involves the world's first intercontinental translocation of cheetahs from Africa to India. |
| Cheetah Introduction in Kuno | - First batch: 8 cheetahs from Namibia (September 2022) - Second batch: 12 cheetahs from South Africa (February 2023) - Mortality: 7 adult cheetahs died (4 due to septicemia). - Reproduction: 17 cubs born, 12 survived. |
| New Habitats for Expansion | 1. Banni Grasslands, Gujarat - Area: 2,500 sq km - Key Features: Banni buffalo, Kankrej cattle, and over 250 bird species. - Suitable Habitat: Semi-arid landscape. 2. Gandhisagar Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh - Location: Mandsaur & Neemuch districts - Key Features: Wild dogs (dholes), chinkaras, leopards, otters, and crocodiles. - Suitable Habitat: Dry, semi-arid terrain near Gandhisagar Dam backwaters. |
| Scientific & Conservation Significance | - Enhancing biodiversity: Cheetahs regulate prey populations. - Strengthening genetic diversity: Reduces inbreeding risk. - Restoring historic population: Aim to introduce 50 cheetahs over 5 years. |
| Challenges & Concerns | - Mortality & Health Issues: Cheetah deaths in Kuno highlight the need for veterinary care. - Human-Wildlife Conflict: Awareness and habitat management required. - Habitat Adaptation: Prey availability and disease control are crucial. |