Shivpuri : Kuno National Park has welcomed three new cheetah cubs, strengthening India’s wildlife revival story. South African cheetah Gamini gave birth to the cubs this week. Consequently, India’s total cheetah population has now reached 38.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav shared the news and called it a significant milestone. Notably, the birth coincides with the third anniversary of African cheetahs arriving in India. Therefore, celebrations have spread across Kuno National Park.
Gamini Becomes Second-Time Mother
Gamini, who came from South Africa, has now become a second-time mother. With this litter, the number of surviving India-born cubs has increased to 27. Moreover, this marks the ninth successful cheetah litter since Project Cheetah began.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav confirmed the development and praised the conservation teams. He highlighted that Kuno continues to strengthen its role in cheetah restoration efforts.
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Project Cheetah Gains Momentum
India launched Project Cheetah on September 17, 2022. The initiative marked the world’s first intercontinental translocation of cheetahs. After seven decades of extinction, India reintroduced the species into its forests.
In 1952, authorities declared cheetahs extinct in India. However, the arrival of African cheetahs revived hopes of ecological restoration. Since then, each successful birth has reinforced confidence in the programme.
Conservation Teams Drive Success
Bhupender Yadav praised field staff and veterinary teams for their dedication. According to him, their round-the-clock efforts ensure proper care and habitat adaptation. As a result, the animals continue to adjust to Indian conditions.
Furthermore, conservation teams closely monitor health, nutrition, and movement patterns. Their coordinated work strengthens the foundation of the ambitious reintroduction mission.
Another good news from Kuno🐆🌿
Kuno welcomes three new cubs – A roaring new chapter at Kuno on the occasion of completion of 3 years of arrival of cheetahs from South Africa.
Celebrations echo through Kuno National Park as Gamini, the South African cheetah and second-time… pic.twitter.com/JpqnfXlpYl
— Bhupender Yadav (@byadavbjp) February 18, 2026
A Roaring Success for Biodiversity
Leaders described the development as a roaring success for wildlife conservation. Each birth strengthens India’s biodiversity goals and ecological balance. Additionally, Kuno National Park has emerged as the heart of India’s cheetah comeback.
Experts believe sustained monitoring will determine long-term success. Nevertheless, current progress offers optimism for future generations.
The Road Ahead for Cheetahs in India
Project Cheetah still faces challenges, including habitat management and ecological stability. However, authorities remain committed to ensuring sustainable growth. Continued births signal that the programme moves in the right direction.
As India completes three years of this historic initiative, the cubs represent more than numbers. They symbolise resilience, planning, and conservation vision. With every new roar in Kuno, India writes another chapter in its wildlife revival journey.
