Context: As M.P. readies new home for Cheetahs, locals share woes of being neighbors to the big cats

Cheetahs have been a hot topic in India during the last three years. They were reintroduced to Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park in September 2022 after being declared extinct in India in 1952. Kuno currently owns 26 cats. 12 were flown in from South Africa, and 8 were from Namibia as part of the Union Government’s Project Cheetah.

6-8 cheetahs are scheduled to be imported from South Africa, with Gandhi Sagar’s preparations almost finished.

Because Gandhi Sagar’s rocky terrain, exposed sheet rock, and shallow topsoil create a savanna-like ecosystem with grasses that are comparable to what the Cheetahs are accustomed to, it was selected as the Cheetah’s second home.

Raikhere mentions the locals’ belief that cheetahs once roamed this area before they disappeared. These are from the ancient rock shelters known as Chaturbhuj Nala, which are under ASI protection. Artworks illustrating many facets of human existence can be found in the location close to the sanctuary. One of them depicts a bow and arrow aimed at a spotted animal. This is a cheetah, according to the locals.

Model Mains Question:

Q: Discuss the objectives, challenges, and significance of ‘Project Cheetah’ in India’s conservation efforts. How does this project align with India’s broader environmental and ecological goals? (250 words)

Model Answer:

Project Cheetah is an ambitious initiative by the Government of India to reintroduce cheetahs, which became extinct in the country in 1952. Launched in 2022, the project aims to restore ecological balance by translocating African cheetahs to India.

Objectives of Project Cheetah:

1. Reintroducing the Species – Bringing back cheetahs to India after their extinction.
2. Restoring Grassland Ecosystems – Enhancing biodiversity and reviving prey-predator relationships.
3. Promoting Eco-Tourism – Boosting conservation-based tourism and local employment.
4. Strengthening Global Conservation Efforts – Aligning with international wildlife conservation practices.

 

Challenges Faced:

1. Habitat Suitability: Kuno National Park, the chosen site, has constraints in prey density and space.
2. Human-Animal Conflict: Possible conflict with local communities and livestock depredation.
3. Adaptation Issues: African cheetahs face challenges in adjusting to Indian climatic and ecological conditions.
4. Long-Term Sustainability: Ensuring genetic diversity and successful breeding in a new environment.

Significance:

1. Biodiversity Conservation: Helps restore lost ecological functions.
2. Global Collaboration: Strengthens India’s ties with conservation efforts worldwide, particularly with Namibia and South Africa.
3. Climate Resilience: Strengthens India’s commitment to wildlife conservation under SDG 15 (Life on Land).

While Project Cheetah is a landmark step in species revival, addressing habitat management and long-term sustainability is crucial. Success will depend on adaptive management, scientific research, and local community participation.