Project Cheetah is India’s plan to bring back cheetahs that went extinct in 1952. It’s the world’s first intercontinental large carnivore reintroduction project. The goal is to restore cheetahs in India’s grasslands and improve biodiversity.
Project Cheetah: India to Import Eight More Cheetahs from Botswana
Cheetah Reintroduction Timeline:
- 1952: Cheetahs were declared extinct in India.
- 2022: First group of cheetahs arrived from Namibia.
- 2023: More cheetahs brought from South Africa.
- 2025: Another batch of eight cheetahs from Botswana will arrive by December 2025.
Where are the Cheetahs kept?
The main release site is Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. Cheetahs are also being introduced in other areas like Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary and Mukundra Hills, to avoid overcrowding.
Why bring Cheetahs from Botswana?
- To increase genetic diversity among the cheetah population.
- To build a stable population in Indian habitats.
- To strengthen India’s wildlife conservation efforts.
Current Population (as of 2025):
- Total cheetahs: 27
- Born in India: 16
- Imported: From Namibia, South Africa, and soon Botswana.
Concerns and Challenges:
- Mortality Issues: 9 adult cheetahs and 10 cubs have died since reintroduction.
- Climate Differences: African cheetahs may find India’s climate difficult.
- Habitat Suitability: Some experts believe African cheetahs might not adapt well to Indian conditions.
Government’s View:
The government remains positive about Project Cheetah. Officials believe that the project will help India restore its lost predator species and balance the ecosystem.
Question & Answer
Q1. When did cheetahs go extinct in India?
(a) 1947
(b) 1952
(c) 1962
(d) 1975
Answer: 1952
Explanation: Cheetahs were officially declared extinct in India in 1952 due to overhunting and habitat loss.
Q2. From which country will India import eight more cheetahs in December 2025?
(a) Namibia
(b) South Africa
(c) Botswana
(d) Kenya
Answer: Botswana
Explanation: India plans to import eight cheetahs from Botswana to increase genetic diversity and strengthen Project Cheetah.
Q3. What is the main site for cheetah reintroduction in India?
(a) Jim Corbett National Park
(b) Kuno National Park
(c) Ranthambore National Park
(d) Gir National Park
Answer: Kuno National Park
Explanation: Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh is the primary site for Project Cheetah.
Q4. How many cheetahs are currently in India under Project Cheetah (as of 2025)?
(a) 16
(b) 20
(c) 27
(d) 35
Answer: 27
Explanation: The total population stands at 27 cheetahs, including 16 born locally in India.
Q5. Project Cheetah is the world’s first ________ initiative.
(a) Cross-border trade
(b) Intercontinental large carnivore reintroduction
(c) African wildlife study
(d) Climate adaptation project
Answer: Intercontinental large carnivore reintroduction
Explanation: Project Cheetah is the world’s first intercontinental effort to reintroduce a large carnivore species to a country where it went extinct.
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