Another significant step in wildlife conservation efforts by the state of Madhya Pradesh is that of developing Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve into a cheetah sanctuary before the next monsoon session, announced Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. Situated at Nauradehi in the Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh, it would be the third cheetah sanctuary in the state after the success of cheetah shifting at Kuno National Park.
Background: Cheetah Reintroduction in India
India became the only country globally to successfully rehabilitate cheetahs, after the extinction of the Asiatic cheetah in the 1950s.
- First Habitat: Kuno National Park, Sheopur (September 2022) – currently 28 cheetahs.
- Second Habitat: Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary, Mandsaur (April 2025) – currently 2 cheetahs.
- Upcoming Translocation: Eight cheetahs expected from Botswana in January 2026.
Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve
- Location: Nauradehi, Sagar district, Madhya Pradesh
- Status: Approved by state cabinet for cheetah habitat development.
- Significance: Will serve as the third habitat in Madhya Pradesh for India’s big cat conservation program.
- Objective: Expand range and population of cheetahs, complementing existing habitats at KNP and Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary.
Conservation Significance
- Biodiversity Protection: Supports reintroduction of apex predators, balancing ecosystem dynamics.
- Wildlife Management: Enhances habitat for cheetahs and other species being translocated to Madhya Pradesh.
- Ecotourism & Awareness: Promotes conservation awareness and sustainable tourism opportunities.
- Global Recognition: Highlights India’s leadership in big cat conservation.
Future Plans and International Cooperation
- As part of the next phase of Project Cheetah, eight more cheetahs are expected to be brought from Botswana in January 2026.
- These cheetahs will be introduced at Kuno National Park, further strengthening the breeding population.
- International collaboration, especially with African nations, remains a key pillar of the programme.
- These partnerships provide expertise in cheetah management, health monitoring, and long-term conservation planning.
Key Takeaways
- Reserve Name: Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve
- Location: Nauradehi, Sagar district, Madhya Pradesh
- Existing Cheetah Habitats: Kuno National Park (28 cheetahs), Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary (2 cheetahs)
- Next Translocation: 8 cheetahs from Botswana, Jan 2026
- Significance: India only country with successful cheetah rehabilitation