Cheetah Release at Gandhisagar Sanctuary

Exam-Focused Notes on Cheetah Reintroduction in India

• Cheetah Reintroduction Programme:

  • Named "Project Cheetah."
  • Initiated to reintroduce cheetahs into India after they were declared extinct in 1952.
  • The project was officially launched on September 17, 2022, with the translocation of eight cheetahs from Namibia to Kuno National Park.

• Recent Developments:

  • On September 17, 2025, a female cheetah named Dheera was released into Gandhisagar Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Dheera, a 7.5-year-old African cheetah, was relocated from Kuno National Park.
  • This marks the third anniversary of Project Cheetah, celebrating a successful initiative.

• Current Status:

  • India now hosts a total of 27 cheetahs:
    • 11 adult cheetahs relocated from African nations (6 females, 5 males).
    • 16 Indian-born cubs.
  • The population includes 3 cheetahs currently residing in Gandhisagar, which includes two males (Prabhas and Pawak) that were moved there earlier in April 2025.
  • All cheetahs are located in a 64 sq. km. fenced enclosure at Gandhisagar, which lies along the Chambal river.

• Project Outcomes:

  • According to the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Project Cheetah has led to the birth of multiple litters over three years, boosting the population despite challenges faced.
  • The NTCA described the cheetah population growth as a "living symbol of resilience and hope."

• Government Initiatives:

  • Alongside the cheetah release, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for India's first PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) Park in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, highlighting the government’s commitment to economic growth.
  • This event was part of various projects being launched on Modi's 75th birthday.

Important Dates:

• September 17, 2022: Launch of Project Cheetah with the first translocation of cheetahs.
• September 17, 2025: Release of Dheera at Gandhisagar Wildlife Sanctuary, marking the third anniversary of the project.

Key Takeaways:

• The reintroduction of cheetahs represents significant progress in wildlife conservation efforts in India.
• It demonstrates successful international cooperation, evident from the relocation of cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa.
• Ongoing governmental support for conservation and economic initiatives highlights integrated approaches to wildlife management and regional development.

Constitutional and Environmental Implications:

• This initiative aligns with constitutional provisions related to wildlife protection, including Article 48A of the Directive Principles of State Policy, which mandates the state to protect and improve the environment and safeguard forests and wildlife.
• The reintroduction projects may also foster public awareness and involvement in conservation efforts and biodiversity preservation.

Economic Indicators:

• The establishment of the PM MITRA Park is expected to boost economic activity in the region, aligning with India's goals for industrial and sustainable development.