Cheetah Population in India Rises to 53 After Birth of Five Cubs at Kuno

In a historic moment for wildlife conservation, the Kuno National Park on Monday witnessed the birth of five cheetah cubs to Namibian cheetah Jwala , taking India’s total cheetah population to 53 , Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced.

The announcement comes just days after another cheetah, Gamini , gave birth to four cubs at the same park. Minister Yadav called the development a “moment of great pride for Project Cheetah” , highlighting Jwala’s success as a third-time mother . With this latest litter, the number of Indian-born thriving cubs has risen to 33 , marking the 10th successful cheetah litter on Indian soil, a significant milestone in India’s cheetah conservation journey.

“The achievement reflects the dedicated efforts, skill, and commitment of veterinarians, field staff, and all involved who continue to work tirelessly on the ground,” Yadav said. He added that the birth of these cubs represents a historic and heart-warming moment and is a testament to the success of India’s ongoing reintroduction program.

The Union Minister also expressed hope that Jwala and her cubs grow strong and healthy , continuing to race ahead and carry India’s cheetah story to greater heights . Project Cheetah, which began with the translocation of African cheetahs to Kuno in 2022, has steadily strengthened India’s efforts to restore this iconic species, once extinct in the country since 1952.

The recent births underline the adaptation and thriving of cheetahs in Indian habitats , reinforcing the importance of inter-state wildlife corridors and ongoing conservation initiatives. With these additions, India celebrates another successful chapter in the journey to secure a sustainable future for its cheetah population.