Project Cheetah Roars to New Heights: India’s Big Cat Population Reaches 53, Including 33 Indian-Born Cubs

FAQs

Q1: When did cheetahs become extinct in India?
Ans:  The cheetah was officially declared extinct in India in 1952.

Q2: How many cheetahs are in India now under Project Cheetah?
Ans:  As of May 2026, the total cheetah population is 53, including 33 cubs born in India.

Q3: Where were the cheetahs brought from?
Ans:  They arrived in three batches: eight from Namibia (2022), 12 from South Africa (2023), and nine from Botswana (2026).

Q4: What is the metapopulation framework?
Ans:  It is a strategy where multiple separate cheetah populations live in different habitats but are connected through movement and genetic exchange to prevent inbreeding and improve long-term survival.

Q5: Which new locations will host cheetahs?
Ans:  Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary (already has three), Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary (approved as third site), and Banni grasslands in Gujarat (under active consideration).