The Hindu : Page 06
Syllabus : Prelims Fact
As part of Project Cheetah, some cheetahs may be relocated to a new breeding centre in Banni, Gujarat, with Gandhi Sagar as the preferred site.
- While Banni offers ample space, prey availability is a concern. Cheetahs at Kuno are set for release in October, with future imports planned.
- Some cheetahs from the next batch may be sent to a new conservation centre in Banni, Gujarat, part of Project Cheetah’s next phase.
- Gandhi Sagar in Madhya Pradesh is currently the preferred location for the next group of cheetahs.
- The Gujarat government is working to prepare Banni by setting up necessary infrastructure, aiming to complete it within six months if possible.
- Banni, covering around 3,500 square kilometres, has ample space but lacks sufficient prey to support a viable cheetah population.
- Antelope species like chinkara and blackbuck are present but not in adequate numbers; chital may need to be introduced to ensure a sustainable prey base.
- At Kuno, 20 cheetahs were introduced since September 2022, with 13 surviving and 13 cubs born, totaling 26 animals. The reserve’s capacity is 21 adults.
UPSC Prelims PYQ : 2012
Ques: Consider the following:
1. Black-necked crane
2. Cheetah
3. Flying squirrel
4. Snow leopard
Which of the above are naturally found in India?
a) 1, 2 and 3 only
b) 1, 3 and 4 only
c) 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans: b)
