Cheetah Reintroduction Program Advances With Arrival of Nine Cats From Botswana In Madhya Pradesh

Nine cheetahs from Botswana were released into Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh on Saturday, as part of India’s ongoing cheetah reintroduction programme. Union Environment and Forest Minister Bhupender Yadav officiated the release.

The group—six males and three females—arrived in India via an Indian Air Force (IAF) plane to Gwalior airport after a journey of more than 10 hours and were transported to Sheopur in two helicopters. Initially, eight cheetahs were expected, but a total of nine were released into the park and placed in quarantine enclosures for observation.

This addition brings the total number of cheetahs in India to 48, including 28 cubs born at Kuno National Park since the first batch was introduced on September 17, 2022. Quarantine enclosures have been prepared to ensure a stress-free acclimatization period, which will last around 15 to 30 days. During this time, wildlife veterinarians and forest officials will monitor feeding patterns, movement, adaptation to the local climate, and overall health. The cheetahs will also be fitted with GPS satellite collars for real-time tracking once released into larger areas.

Also Read: Radio-Collared Tiger Dies in Madhya Pradesh Reserve Days After Relocation

This is the third batch of African cheetahs relocated to India, following earlier transfers from Namibia in September 2022 and South Africa in February 2023. The programme, part of a government-to-government agreement, aims to establish a genetically diverse, free-ranging cheetah population in India over the next decade.

Since 2023, 30 cubs have been born at Kuno, with 28 surviving. In February 2026 alone, nine cubs from two litters have been born, all of whom are reported healthy.

Also Read: Bhojshala Hearing Delayed as Madhya Pradesh Lawyers Strike Over Colleague's Murder