Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav celebrated a milestone at Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park as Namibian cheetah Jwala birthed five healthy cubs on March 9, 2026. Marking the 10th successful breeding post reintroduction, this elevates India’s cheetah population to 53, with 33 India born, affirming Kuno’s climate suitability.
Launched September 17, 2022, by PM Narendra Modi with eight Namibians (five females, three males), Project Cheetah revives the species extinct in India since 1952. Jwala (originally Siyaya), third time mother, previously delivered four (March 2023, one survived) and three (January 2024). All cubs thrive under vigilant monitoring, showcasing natural mating and adaptation.
Dr. Yadav hailed Kuno officials’ care, calling it a proud wildlife conservation moment. Kuno’s predator proof fencing, prey base (nilgai, chital), and vast habitat position MP as cheetah’s ideal Indian home, blending conservation, eco tourism, local livelihoods.
Project Cheetah Progress
Conservation Imperatives
Successes thrill, yet vigilance essential. High cub mortality (80 to 90% natural), territorial conflicts, poaching risks. Enhance telemetry, anti poaching, community eco tourism, expand to Nauradehi Madhav parks. Climate resilient corridors vital amid habitat loss.
This birth symbolizes human wildlife synergy, boosting biodiversity, tourism revenue (Kuno draws global visitors). As Dr. Yadav notes, Kuno’s “auspicious news” galvanizes Viksit Bharat’s green vision. Sustained efforts ensure cheetah’s roar free, legacy for generations.
