Re-Introduction of Cheetah

The Ministry had requested the Wildlife Institute of India and Wildlife Trust of India to undertake a feasibility study with a view to re-introduce Cheetah in India. The feasibility report has been received in which three potential sites, from amongst ten sites evaluated, have been found to be best suited for initiating the programme. These are Sahgarh landscape in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, Kuno Palpur and Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh. Re-introduction of Cheetah would require long term financial and administrative commitments. State Governments’ concurrence to this project is crucial for the successful implementation of the project.

The project would require, apart from interventions for habitat improvements, resettlement of above 800 families living in 80 seasonal ‘dhanis’ in Sahgarh and 21 villages in Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary. Kuno Palpur may not require immediate relocation as already 24 villages have been relocated to create inviolate space.