5 New Cubs in Kuno National Park

Kuno National Park has welcomed five more cheetah cubs, raising the total cheetah count in India to 31. This milestone is a significant achievement for India’s cheetah reintroduction efforts, especially at Kuno.

1. How many cheetahs are now in India after the new cubs’ birth?
With the birth of five new cubs by Nirva, the total number of cheetahs in India has now reached 31. This includes 29 individuals at Kuno National Park, marking a significant milestone for the reintroduction program. The cubs’ birth is seen as an essential development for the park’s cheetah population, showcasing the success of India’s Cheetah Project. The growing population of cheetahs is a key achievement in the country’s biodiversity conservation efforts.

2. What role has Kuno National Park played in India’s cheetah reintroduction?
Kuno National Park has been central to India’s Cheetah Project, which aims to reintroduce the species into the wild after their extinction in the country. The park has already received 20 cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa since 2022, with the first transcontinental transfer of cheetahs happening in September 2022. The park’s strategic location and conservation efforts have made it the focal point for these reintroduction activities, facilitating the growth of the cheetah population in India.

3. How significant is the cheetah cub birth for India’s biodiversity?
The birth of five cubs by Nirva is celebrated as a major win for India’s biodiversity. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav praised the cubs as a symbol of successful conservation efforts and rich biodiversity in India. This event highlights the positive impact of the cheetah reintroduction project, with growing populations of the species in Kuno National Park. Such developments strengthen India’s position as a leader in global wildlife conservation, especially in terms of endangered species revival.

4. How did Kuno National Park begin its cheetah reintroduction project?
The cheetah reintroduction project in Kuno National Park started with a bold step in September 2022, when India received eight cheetahs from Namibia. This marked the first-ever intercontinental translocation of cheetahs. Subsequently, 12 more cheetahs were brought from South Africa in February 2023. This initiative was aimed at re-establishing cheetah populations in India, where the species had become extinct decades ago. Kuno’s successful role in the project has garnered significant international attention.

5. What is the current state of the Cheetah Project in India?
The Cheetah Project in India, despite some criticisms, has made significant strides in reintroducing the species. Kuno National Park now houses the majority of India’s cheetah population. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the project has seen active support from local authorities and conservationists. With more cubs being born, the project appears to be a step closer to achieving sustainable cheetah populations in the wild, contributing to India’s ecological health and biodiversity.

6. What challenges does the Cheetah Project face in India?
Despite the apparent success of the cheetah reintroduction, the project faces challenges, particularly concerning the health and welfare of the animals. Experts have raised concerns about the physical, physiological, and mental health impacts of translocating cheetahs. Additionally, local communities near Kuno National Park have expressed concerns about the social and economic consequences of the project. These issues highlight the complexity of balancing wildlife conservation with the welfare of indigenous populations.

7. How have the local communities around Kuno National Park responded to the project?
While the Cheetah Project has garnered support, it has also faced criticism from some local communities and human rights activists. These groups argue that the reintroduction of cheetahs could exacerbate social and economic inequalities in nearby areas. The project has been accused of not fully considering the local populations’ needs and challenges, including potential disruptions in livelihoods due to increased wildlife activity. Addressing these concerns is essential for the long-term success of the reintroduction effort.

कूनो में नए मेहमानों का स्वागत है…

अत्यंत प्रसन्नता है कि कूनो राष्ट्रीय उद्यान में चीतों का कुनबा निरंतर बढ़ रहा है।

हाल ही में 5 वर्षीय नीरवा ने 5 शावकों को जन्म दिया है। इन नन्हे शावकों का आगमन चीता प्रोजेक्ट की सफलता और भारत की समृद्ध जैव-विविधता का प्रतीक है।

माननीय… pic.twitter.com/TRH33BrLJI

— Dr Mohan Yadav (@DrMohanYadav51) April 27, 2025

8. What makes this story a must-read?
This article provides a compelling glimpse into the ongoing efforts to bring back cheetahs to India after a long absence. The birth of new cubs is a hopeful sign for wildlife conservation, though challenges remain. By following this project, readers can better understand the complexities of balancing conservation efforts with local community needs, offering a broader perspective on wildlife reintroduction efforts globally.