On February 28, 2026, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav welcomed nine cheetahs from Botswana to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. This group includes three males and six females, marking a significant step in India’s Project Cheetah, aimed at reviving the cheetah population in the country.
Before joining the larger landscape, these cheetahs will spend time in quarantine to get used to their new environment. Yadav shared the news on social media, celebrating the arrival as a milestone in restoring India’s cheetah numbers. Since the original reintroduction of cheetahs from Namibia in 2022, the population in India has grown to 39, including 28 cubs born in the wild.
Project Cheetah has received praise for its ambitious goals. In fact, experts like Dr. Vidya Vishwanathan, a wildlife biologist, note that such initiatives are vital for biodiversity. She emphasizes the importance of global partnerships in conservation. “Bringing species back to their native habitats requires careful planning and international cooperation,” she explains.
This effort aligns with a global trend. According to a report from the International Union for Conservation of Nature, protected areas are crucial for species survival. The collaboration between India and Botswana illustrates a shared commitment toward wildlife preservation. Recent statistics show a rise in international conservation programs, indicating growing awareness of the need for ecological balance.
The journey of these cheetahs began with talks between India and Botswana in December 2024. Both nations worked together carefully to ensure the cheetahs’ safe transport and acclimatization. A visit by an Indian team to Botswana in September 2025 helped finalize details on their relocation, which included strict adherence to international wildlife regulations.
After veterinary checks, the cheetahs traveled about 700 kilometers to their new home in India. They were even transported by air with the Indian Air Force’s support, ensuring their safety throughout the trip.
Project Cheetah reflects India’s determination to foster a sustainable and thriving cheetah population. It also represents a growing movement towards collaborative conservation efforts worldwide. As wildlife agencies work together, the hope is to create resilient ecosystems for future generations.
For more insights on global wildlife conservation efforts, you can visit [IUCN’s website](https://www.iucn.org/).
