Relevance: Environment & Biodiversity (UPSC GS-3) | Source: The Indian Express

India-born cheetah Mukhi, the only surviving cub from the first litter born in Kuno National Park (2023), has given birth to five cubs, marking the first second-generation reproduction under India’s cheetah reintroduction project.

Cheetah Reintroduction Programme & Kuno National Park

  • Project Cheetah (2022): India’s plan to reintroduce cheetahs after they were declared extinct in 1952.
  • Source populations: Namibia & South Africa.
  • Kuno National Park (Madhya Pradesh): Chosen for its savanna-like grasslands suitable for cheetah prey and movement.
  • Aim: Restore grassland ecology, enhance predator diversity, and improve ecosystem services.

Significance & Way Ahead

Significance

Way Ahead

First India-born cheetah giving birth = proof of adaptation and genetic continuity.Strengthen prey-base management (chital, blackbuck, hare).
Boosts long-term viability of reintroduction efforts.Enhance monitoring, radio-collaring & veterinary support.
Helps restore open-forest/grassland ecosystems.Expand habitats beyond Kuno to avoid overcrowding & conflict.
Global conservation value—India becomes only country with Asian Lions, Tigers, Leopards & Cheetahs.Improve climate resilience, water availability & disease-control protocols.

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Q. Consider the following statements:

  1. Under Project Cheetah, cheetahs were brought to India mainly from Namibia.
  2. Kuno National Park has a moist deciduous forest ecosystem.

Which of the above is/are correct?
 (a) 1 only
 (b) 2 only
 (c) Both 1 and 2
 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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