In a significant move towards wildlife conservation, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced at the BRICS Summit that South Africa is prepared to donate more cheetahs to India. This gesture underscores India's commitment to feline conservation and highlights the growing international collaboration in wildlife protection.
As of now, South Africa has sent 12 cheetahs to India, following an earlier contribution of eight big cats from Namibia in November 2022. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to restore the cheetah population in India, which has been extinct for decades.
Despite the initial enthusiasm, there have been challenges regarding the survival of these cheetahs. Out of the cheetahs released in Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh, nine, including three cubs, have sadly died. The causes of death include bacterial infections, maggots, renal failure, injuries, and heat stress, leaving 15 survivors.
According to a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and South Africa, there is a plan to translocate a total of 100 cheetahs to India over the next decade. This initiative includes an annual goal of introducing 12 cheetahs, with the MoU set for review every five years to assess progress and adapt strategies accordingly.
There are ongoing discussions regarding the suitability of Kuno National Park for cheetahs. Concerns stem from the park's moist climate, which contrasts sharply with the natural dry habitats preferred by cheetahs. Furthermore, Kuno was initially considered for the translocation of lions, raising doubts about its compatibility with cheetah conservation.
Plans are being discussed to possibly relocate the surviving cheetahs to Mukundra Hills in Rajasthan. However, the presence of tigers in Mukundra Hills poses potential conflicts between Project Cheetah and Project Tiger, leading to cautious deliberations on the best course of action.
During the BRICS summit, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of global cooperation in wildlife conservation, specifically mentioning the Big Cat Alliance. This initiative aims to foster collaboration among BRICS nations to protect big cats, including the cheetah.
Launched in Mysuru on April 9, the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) focuses on the conservation of seven major big cat species, including the Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma. The alliance seeks to engage with 97 countries to protect these species and their natural habitats.
Despite the setbacks and deaths among the cheetah population, India remains steadfast in its commitment to cheetah conservation. Ongoing discussions about suitable habitats and international collaborations continue to pave the way for future efforts to ensure the survival of this majestic species.
Q1. Why is South Africa sending cheetahs to India?
Answer: South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the donation to support India's dedication to feline conservation, highlighting international collaboration.
Q2. How many cheetahs has South Africa sent to India so far?
Answer: South Africa has sent 12 cheetahs to India, building on the eight big cats previously sent from Namibia in late 2022.
Q3. What has been the survival rate of these cheetahs?
Answer: Out of the cheetahs released, nine have died, attributed to various health issues, leaving 15 surviving animals in Kuno National Park.
Q4. Is there a future plan for more cheetah translocations?
Answer: Yes, there is a MoU to translocate 100 cheetahs to India over the next decade, with annual assessments planned.
Q5. Why is there speculation about Kuno National Park being unsuitable for cheetahs?
Answer: Concerns exist due to Kuno's moist climate and its initial consideration for lion translocation, raising doubts about its suitability for cheetahs.
Question 1: Why has South Africa decided to donate cheetahs to India?
A) To enhance tourism
B) To support wildlife conservation efforts
C) To improve ecological balance
D) To foster bilateral relations
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: How many cheetahs were sent from Namibia to India?
A) 10
B) 12
C) 8
D) 15
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What is the main cause of the deaths of some cheetahs in Kuno National Park?
A) Old age
B) Human conflict
C) Bacterial infections
D) Food scarcity
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: How many cheetahs does the MoU plan to translocate to India over ten years?
A) 50
B) 75
C) 100
D) 150
Correct Answer: C
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