Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav actively participated in the evaluation session of ‘Project Cheetah’ in Sheopur on Monday, underscoring its significant role in protecting cheetahs and preserving biodiversity while also contributing to the state’s development and employment opportunities.
In an interview with ANI on Monday, CM Yadav emphasized the broader objectives of the ‘Cheetah Project,’ stating, “The ‘Cheetah Project’ is not solely focused on cheetah conservation but also aims to safeguard other wildlife species. The initiatives undertaken within the project framework are geared towards enhancing wildlife protection efforts while simultaneously fostering state development and employment prospects. Our endeavors are directed towards propelling the state’s developmental trajectory through these project initiatives.”
During the evaluation session, CM Mohan Yadav collaborated closely with Union Minister for Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav. The meeting, convened at a resort in the Saisipura area of Sheopur district, saw the participation of key officials from both central and state governments involved in the implementation of the ‘Project Cheetah.’
Recent milestones include the birth of four cubs to Cheetah ‘Jwala,’ brought in from Namibia, at Kuno National Park. This event follows the ambitious reintroduction of cheetahs in India through ‘Project Cheetah’ in 2022, which saw the arrival of eight cheetahs from Namibia. Subsequently, twelve cheetahs from South Africa were translocated and released into Kuno National Park in February 2023.
The birth of these cubs adds to the successful conservation efforts, notably following another recent event where cheetah Aasha gave birth to three cubs at the same park. The reintroduction of cheetahs in India marks a significant conservation achievement, considering the species’ extinction in the country in 1952. ‘Project Cheetah’ stands as a testament to concerted efforts aimed at restoring and preserving India’s biodiversity heritage.
