The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has approved the filming of a four-part web series on Project Cheetah, aiming to showcase India’s efforts in the world’s first intercontinental translocation of a large carnivore. The series will begin filming on September 17, coinciding with the second anniversary of Project Cheetah, as per official records.
Deputy Inspector General of NTCA, Vaibhav Chandra Mathur, confirmed in a letter dated July 21 that the eighth technical committee of the authority granted approval for the web series. The project, which will be shot by Shen Films and Planting Productions, is set to document the conceptualization, challenges, and future expectations of Project Cheetah.
The filming will take place at Kuno National Park and the Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh, following the approval from the state’s Chief Wildlife Warden on August 6. The series will air on Discovery Network across 170 countries in various languages, aiming to highlight India’s efforts in reintroducing cheetahs to their natural habitat after 70 years.
Despite facing challenges, including the recent deaths of several cheetahs and a high leopard population at Kuno, the project has shown signs of progress with the birth of 12 cubs this year. As part of an interim solution, authorities are augmenting the prey base and managing the leopard population in both Kuno and Gandhi Sagar.
The NTCA’s decision to approve the web series has sparked some controversy, with wildlife activists questioning the timing and process of the approval. However, officials involved in the project remain optimistic, emphasizing the importance of educating the public about the complexities and successes of this ambitious conservation effort.
With shooting set to begin on September 17, the web series will provide a comprehensive look into the ongoing efforts and future plans for Project Cheetah, highlighting India’s dedication to wildlife conservation and ecological restoration.
