Q1: What is the Cheetah Reintroduction Project?
A: The Cheetah Reintroduction Project is an initiative by the Indian government to bring cheetahs back to India after they were declared extinct in the country in 1952. The project involves sourcing cheetahs from other countries and releasing them into designated wildlife reserves.
Q2: When did the project begin?
A: The project officially started in September 2022.
Q3: How many cheetahs have been brought to India so far?
A: A total of 20 cheetahs have been brought from Namibia and South Africa to Kuno National Park between September 2022 and February 2023.
Q4: What challenges has the project faced?
A: The project has faced several challenges, including the deaths of 11 cheetahs due to causes such as cardiac arrest, renal failure, traumatic shock, and heat stroke.
Q5: What is the next phase of the project?
A: The second phase, expected to begin by the end of 2024, involves sourcing around 12 to 15 cheetahs from countries other than South Africa and Namibia, with Kenya being a potential source. The new batch will be introduced in Kuno National Park and two additional habitats: Gandhi Sagar and Nauradehi wildlife sanctuaries.
Q6: What are the plans for future cheetah introductions?
A: The plan includes introducing a new batch of around 10-12 cheetahs every year for at least the next five years, to ensure a sustainable and healthy population.
Q7: What is the estimated cost of the project?
A: The estimated cost for the first five-year phase of the project is Rs 91.65 crore.
Q8: Why are cheetahs being reintroduced to India?
A: Cheetahs are being reintroduced to restore their role in the ecosystem as top predators, enhance biodiversity, and boost conservation efforts in the region.
Q9: How are the cheetahs being monitored?
A: The cheetahs are closely monitored using radio collars and regular health check-ups to ensure their well-being and adaptation to the new environment.
Q10: How will the success of the project be measured?
A: The success of the project will be gauged by the survival, health, and breeding of the cheetah population, as well as their impact on the local ecosystem.
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