India-born cheetah gives birth to five cubs in Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park
An India-born cheetah has given birth to five cubs at Kuno National Park, bringing the total cheetah population in India to 60. This event marks the introduction of a new Botswana genetic lineage to the country's conservation efforts.
Why it matters
This success highlights the progress of Project Cheetah in restoring a species that was previously extinct in India.
An India-born cheetah has given birth to five cubs in the Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh's Sheopur district, taking the total number of big cats in the country to 60, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said on Monday (October 5, 2026).
The father is a cheetah brought from Botswana, and the birth of these cubs marks the beginning of the Botswana lineage in India, adding a new genetic lineage to the country's growing cheetah population, a government statement said.
Congratulating veterinarians, forest officials, field staff, and the management team associated with Project Cheetah, Mr. Yadav said their dedication, commitment, and tireless efforts were continuously progressing the cheetah restoration journey in India.
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