India’s Cheetah Count Reaches 53
Jwala gives birth to five cubs at Kuno National Park, marking 10th successful litter in India
GG News Bureau
Bhopal, 9th March: India’s cheetah population has risen to 53 after a Namibian cheetah named Jwala gave birth to five cubs at Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said on Monday.
In a post on social media platform X, Yadav described the development as a proud moment for Project Cheetah, noting that the birth marks the 10th successful cheetah litter on Indian soil.
“With this birth, the number of Indian-born thriving cubs has risen to 33,” the minister said.
He added that the milestone reflects the dedication and commitment of veterinarians, field staff and wildlife experts involved in the ambitious conservation programme.
“This is a moment of great pride for Project Cheetah and reflects the dedicated efforts, skill and commitment of veterinarians and field staff who are working tirelessly on the ground,” Yadav said.
Jwala, originally brought from Namibia as part of the cheetah reintroduction programme, has now become a third-time mother.
Describing the event as historic and heart-warming for wildlife conservation in India, the minister expressed hope that the cubs will thrive and further strengthen the cheetah population in the country.
Project Cheetah, launched in 2022, aims to reintroduce the species in India after it was declared extinct in the country in 1952.
Earlier this year, another cheetah named Gamini, brought from South Africa, gave birth to four cubs, marking her second litter at the park.
In addition, on February 28, 2026, nine cheetahs — including six females and three males from Botswana — were released into quarantine enclosures at Kuno National Park.
The animals are currently undergoing an acclimatisation and health monitoring phase before being gradually released into the larger forest landscape.
Officials say the continued births and successful adaptation of the animals mark an encouraging phase in India’s efforts to revive the cheetah population and strengthen wildlife conservation initiatives.
