Botswana Cheetahs Released into Kuno National Park

Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, on Monday released two female cheetahs brought from Botswana into the open forest area of Kuno National Park. The move marks another milestone in India’s ambitious Project Cheetah.

The cheetahs were released after completing their quarantine and acclimatisation period. Since their arrival in February, they had been kept in controlled enclosures near the Kuno River, where wildlife officials monitored their health and behaviour.

Earlier this year, nine cheetahs — six females and three males — were translocated from Botswana to India as part of the third phase of the project. With these additions, the total cheetah population in the country, including cubs born in India, has reportedly reached 57.

Wildlife experts say the Botswana cheetahs are expected to enhance genetic diversity within the growing population at Kuno National Park. The initiative aims to reintroduce cheetahs to India, promote breeding, and establish a sustainable wild population over time.

The Madhya Pradesh government is also working to expand the project beyond Kuno. Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary and Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary are being developed as future habitats for the species.