Panel Gives Nod to Shift Cheetahs from Kuno Park to Gandhi Sagar

The Cheetah Project Steering Committee has approved the relocation of cheetahs from Kuno National Park to Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh. This strategic move aims to expand their habitat, supporting a population of 60-70 cheetahs, and is crucial for UPSC aspirants focusing on Environment topics in GS Paper 3. Last Updated: 2025-04-15

Key Facts About Cheetah Relocation Project

• Cheetah relocation project approved by the Cheetah Project Steering Committee.
• Move involves shifting cheetahs from Kuno National Park to Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Aims to expand cheetah habitat as part of conservation strategy.
• Gandhi Sagar spans 368 square kilometers in northwestern Madhya Pradesh.
• Sanctuary features diverse ecosystems: savanna, grasslands, forests.
• Recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA).
• Vegetation typical of Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forests.
• Chambal River divides the sanctuary, with Gandhi Sagar Dam inside.
• Ecosystem resembles Maasai Mara in Kenya.
• Long-term goal: support 60-70 cheetahs across Kuno-Gandhi Sagar landscape.
• First phase: release 4-5 cheetahs into a fenced area.
• 64-square-kilometer section cordoned off for cheetah release.
• Leopards relocated to reduce species conflict.
• 26 cheetahs currently at Kuno: 17 in the wild, 9 in enclosures.
• Concerns raised about prey deficits in Gandhi Sagar.
• Efforts underway to enhance prey base by introducing chital.
• Commitment to sustainable cheetah population management.

India's Wildlife Conservation Strategy

The relocation of cheetahs is a significant step in India's broader wildlife conservation strategy, aligning with national goals to preserve biodiversity and restore ecological balance. This initiative enhances India's reputation in wildlife conservation, paralleling global efforts like those in Kenya's Maasai Mara. The project also contributes to the local economy through eco-tourism and job creation, aligning with sustainable development goals.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Project Tiger: Aims to conserve tiger populations and their habitats.
• Project Elephant: Focuses on elephant conservation and habitat protection.
• Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats: Supports the conservation of wildlife and their habitats.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 3: Environment - Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.
• Prelims: Questions could focus on the location of Gandhi Sagar, its ecosystem, and the objectives of the cheetah relocation project.
• Mains: Analytical themes could include wildlife conservation strategies, human-wildlife conflict resolution, and the role of biodiversity in sustainable development.
• Essay Paper: Topics on environmental conservation and biodiversity.

FAQ Section

• What is the Cheetah Relocation Project? The project involves moving cheetahs from Kuno National Park to Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary to expand their habitat and support a population of 60-70 cheetahs.
• Why is the Cheetah Relocation Project important? It is crucial for biodiversity conservation, helps restore ecological balance, and supports India's wildlife conservation goals.
• What are the key features of Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary? Gandhi Sagar spans 368 square kilometers, features diverse ecosystems, and is recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA).