TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT
THE CONTEXT: In a significant development for India’s wildlife conservation efforts, a Namibian cheetah named Jwala has given birth to three cubs at the Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh.
EXPLANATION:
- This follows closely after another Namibian cheetah, Aasha, gave birth to three cubs a few weeks earlier.
- The news was shared by Union Environment Minister highlighting the success of ‘Project Cheetah.’
Project Cheetah and Reintroduction Efforts:
- Project Cheetah is the world’s first intercontinental large wild carnivore translocation project.
- The project aimed at the reintroduction of Cheetahs in the country which had become extinct in 1950s in the country.
- The cheetahs, including Jwala and Aasha, were translocated from Namibia as part of this ambitious conservation initiative.
- The cheetahs were translocated from Namibia and South Africa, showcasing global collaboration in wildlife conservation.
- The first batch of eight cheetahs arrived in India in September 2022, followed by a second batch of 12 cheetahs from South Africa in February.
- Project Cheetah aimed at establishing a self-sustaining population of about 35 cheetahs in the country over the next decade.
- However the Project has faced several criticisms with the death of 9 cheetahs (6 adults and 3 cubs) out of the 20 translocated cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa.
- The birth of three cubs by Namibian cheetah Jwala adds to the growing success of the reintroduction program at Kuno National Park.
- Earlier, Aasha had given birth to three cubs on January 3, showcasing the adaptability and reproductive success of the translocated cheetahs.
Challenges:
- Jwala had previously given birth to four cubs in March, but unfortunately, only one of them survived.
- This highlights the challenges and uncertainties associated with the reintroduction process and the delicate nature of wildlife conservation.
Importance of Cheetah Reintroduction:
- The reintroduction of cheetahs holds ecological significance, contributing to the restoration of a balanced ecosystem.
- Cheetahs, as apex predators, play a crucial role in controlling herbivore populations, ensuring the health of the overall ecosystem.
Conclusion:
- The birth of three cubs by Namibian cheetah Jwala at Kuno National Park marks a positive step forward in India’s efforts to reintroduce this magnificent species.
- It underscores the success of ‘Project Cheetah’ and highlights the dedication of wildlife conservationists.
- As the cubs grow, they symbolize hope for the revival of a species once extinct in India, contributing to the country’s rich biodiversity and ecological balance.
- The collaborative efforts and achievements in cheetah translocations exemplify India’s commitment to global conservation initiatives.