Sheopur: Kuno National Park is steadily emerging as India’s most important cheetah breeding centre, marking a major milestone in the country’s ambitious cheetah reintroduction programme. Over the last three years, the park has witnessed the birth of 45 cheetah cubs, of which 33 have survived, significantly strengthening the cheetah population in the country.
At present, Kuno houses 50 cheetahs, making it the largest concentration of cheetahs in India. Of these, 12 cheetahs are currently roaming freely in the wild, while 23 cubs remain inside enclosures along with their six mothers. In addition, nine cheetahs are under quarantine and close veterinary observation, reflecting the careful scientific management being followed by wildlife authorities.
This rapid rise in numbers has now prompted authorities to begin preparations for expanding the cheetah population beyond Kuno, with plans underway to shift a few animals to Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary, which is being developed as the next major cheetah habitat.
Four Cheetahs Likely to Be Shifted to Nauradehi in First Phase
According to wildlife officials, in the initial phase, two male and two female cheetahs are likely to be relocated to Nauradehi in June. The transfer is expected to take place after vaccination protocols are completed.
The relocation plan is being prepared carefully so that the animals can be captured and moved before the onset of the monsoon season, ensuring safer transport and adaptation conditions.
The final approval for this move will come from the Cheetah Steering Committee, which is monitoring the national cheetah project and habitat readiness.
Madhya Pradesh Plans Third Major Cheetah Habitat
Mohan Yadav has already announced the state government’s intention to develop Nauradehi as the country’s third dedicated cheetah habitat, after Kuno and Gandhi Sagar.
Officials say the move is necessary because Kuno’s increasing cheetah numbers now require additional territory to maintain ecological balance and reduce territorial conflict among growing populations.
Currently, India’s total cheetah population has reached 53, with Kuno contributing the overwhelming majority of breeding success.
5,500 Sq Km Sanctuary Ready for Cheetah Expansion
Spread across nearly 5,500 square kilometres, Nauradehi is the largest wildlife sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh and offers vast grassland and forest landscapes suited for cheetah habitation.
For the past two years, the sanctuary has been undergoing intensive development to support cheetah introduction.
Authorities have already created:
- a strong prey base for hunting
- surveillance and tracking systems
- habitat management infrastructure
- veterinary support mechanisms
Construction of specialised holding enclosures is now in its final stage.
Kuno’s Breeding Success Strengthens India’s Cheetah Mission
Kuno’s success as a breeding centre is being viewed as a major achievement in India’s wildlife conservation programme. The birth and survival of cubs demonstrate that habitat adaptation and long-term monitoring efforts are yielding positive results.
Wildlife experts believe the expansion to Nauradehi could help create a broader landscape for cheetah conservation and reduce dependence on a single protected area.
The upcoming relocation is expected to be a crucial step in shaping the next phase of India’s cheetah restoration mission.
Read also: Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park Sees India’s Cheetah Population Rise to 30 Under Project Cheetah
