Project Cheetah is a pioneering initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, celebrating its one-year anniversary on September 17, 2022. This groundbreaking project represents the first-ever intercontinental translocation of African cheetahs to India, specifically to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh.
Within its first year, Project Cheetah has achieved significant milestones. Notably, it has successfully introduced 20 African cheetahs to their new habitat. The project's aim is to restore the cheetah population in India, which had become extinct in the country since the 1950s.
Despite its successes, the project has encountered several challenges. One of the most significant issues has been the mortality of some cheetahs, with six out of the 20 translocated cheetahs not surviving their first year. This has raised concerns regarding the project's sustainability and the well-being of the remaining cheetahs.
The survival rates of the cheetahs have varied. Remarkably, approximately 75% of the cheetahs brought from Namibia and 67% from South Africa have managed to survive in their new environment. This indicates a promising adaptation to their new habitat.
The cheetahs have shown impressive adaptability by hunting indigenous animals, which has been crucial for their survival. Additionally, successful breeding has been reported, which is a positive sign for the future of the species in India.
The involvement of local communities has been vital for the success of Project Cheetah. Their support has helped mitigate cheetah fatalities caused by hunting, accidents, and retaliation. Community engagement ensures that local populations understand the importance of wildlife conservation and the necessity of protecting these magnificent animals.
The Union government has recognized the challenges faced during the project's initial phase and has implemented stricter monitoring and management protocols. These measures aim to prevent further fatalities among the translocated cheetahs. Furthermore, efforts are being made to enhance coordination between central and state governments, ensuring that future project implementations are more effective and seamless.
Q1. Where were the African cheetahs brought as part of Project Cheetah?
Answer: The African cheetahs were introduced to Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh, India, as part of the translocation project.
Q2. What has been a significant challenge faced during the first year of the project?
Answer: A major challenge has been the fatalities among the cheetahs, with six out of the 20 not surviving their initial year in India.
Q3. How successful has the project been in terms of cheetah survival?
Answer: The project has seen a survival rate of approximately 75% for Namibian cheetahs and 67% for those from South Africa, indicating positive adaptation.
Q4. What noteworthy adaptation have the cheetahs demonstrated in their new habitat?
Answer: The cheetahs have adapted by hunting indigenous animals and have successfully bred, showcasing their ability to thrive in the new environment.
Q5. How has the government responded to challenges and setbacks in the project?
Answer: The Union government has established stricter monitoring protocols and enhanced coordination between state and central governments to address challenges and improve the project's future.
Question 1: What is Project Cheetah primarily aimed at?
A) Reducing wildlife crime
B) Restoring the cheetah population in India
C) Increasing tourism in Madhya Pradesh
D) Protecting the Indian tiger
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: How many cheetahs were translocated to Kuno National Park?
A) 10
B) 15
C) 20
D) 25
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: What notable adaptation have the cheetahs shown in their new habitat?
A) Hunting domestic animals
B) Hibernating during winters
C) Hunting indigenous animals
D) Migrating to other countries
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What percentage of Namibian cheetahs survived the first year?
A) 50%
B) 60%
C) 75%
D) 80%
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What has been a crucial factor in reducing cheetah fatalities?
A) Government intervention
B) Local community support
C) International funding
D) Wildlife tourism
Correct Answer: B
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