India-born cheetah KJP21 gives birth to 5 cubs in Kuno National Park
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Prelims·
Project Cheetah and in-situ conservation: a key GS3 topic on biodiversity restoration and genetic lineage.
Why in news
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced that an India-born cheetah (KJP21) gave birth to five cubs in Kuno National Park, marking a milestone for Project Cheetah.
Background
KJP21, a female cheetah born in India, gave birth to five healthy cubs in Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh. The father is a cheetah from Botswana, establishing a new genetic lineage in India.
Facts for Prelims
- FactTotal cheetah population in India reached 60 as of October 2026.
- Fact41 out of the 60 cheetahs in India were born on Indian soil.
- PlaceKuno National Park is located in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh.
- FactKJP21 is the third female cheetah born in India, following Mukhi and KGP12.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the cheetah reintroduction program in India, consider the following statements:
- Kuno National Park is located in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh.
- The total cheetah population in India reached 60 as of October 2026.
- Exactly 50 out of the 60 cheetahs in India were born on Indian soil.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2 only
- (d)1 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only — Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: The note states that 41 out of the 60 cheetahs were born on Indian soil.
For Mains
Q. Examine the ecological and genetic implications of the cheetah reintroduction program in India, focusing on the challenges of establishing a self-sustaining population.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Genetic diversity: Risks of inbreeding depression vs. benefits of establishing new lineages from Botswana stock
- Habitat suitability: Ecological requirements of Kuno National Park for apex predator conservation
- Monitoring protocols: Role of scientific management and field staff in tracking reproductive success
Keywords: Project Cheetah · In-situ conservation · Genetic lineage · Apex predator · Biodiversity restoration
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