In a major step towards wildlife conservation, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav announced the establishment of new Wildlife Rescue Centres across the state to ensure timely treatment and care for injured and endangered animals. Speaking to the media on Wednesday before departing for Gujarat, Dr. Yadav emphasised that Madhya Pradesh is India’s most wildlife-rich state, home to the country’s highest population of tigers, leopards, and vultures, along with significant crocodile habitats.
Currently, the state has only one rescue centre located in Van Vihar, Bhopal. With changing environmental conditions posing challenges to wildlife, the government now plans to create such centres at the divisional level. Officials have been directed to expedite the implementation of these initiatives to strengthen the state’s ecosystem and wildlife protection infrastructure.
The Chief Minister also revealed that a new national park is being developed in the Gandhi Sagar forest area by relocating cheetahs from Kuno Palpur National Park. Additionally, exotic species like the King Cobra have been introduced to further enrich the state’s biodiversity. Plans to establish two new zoos have also received budget approval.
Dr. Yadav, who is visiting Gujarat to study the zoo and rescue centre in Jamnagar, said that successful models from the state will be adopted in Madhya Pradesh. He also shared plans for expanding veterinary education and infrastructure, including new courses and hospitals to train more veterinary doctors.
Urging citizens to report any sightings of endangered or injured wildlife to forest officials, the Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of both people and animals.
