Cheetah Nirva, three cubs released into wild at Kuno; free-ranging population rises to 20

Bhopal: Cheetah Nirva and her three cubs were released into the wild at MP’s Kuno National Park on Saturday, increasing the number of free-ranging cheetahs in the landscape to 20.

The release took place in the Ahera tourism zone of the Palpur East Range. Nirva’s litter, comprising two male cubs and one female, is approximately 13 months old.

The move marks another important step in the ongoing cheetah reintroduction programme, officials said, adding that the presence of more cheetahs in the wild is expected to enhance ecotourism by giving visitors greater opportunities to observe the animals in their natural habitat. Cheetah Project authorities believe the development will also help promote wildlife awareness and generate economic benefits for local communities dependent on tourism-related activities.

According to officials, all cheetahs currently roaming freely in Kuno are healthy and adapting well to the park’s environment.

The movement and behaviour of Nirva and her cubs will continue to be monitored through advanced radio telemetry systems and dedicated field teams to ensure their safety and successful adaptation.