The reintroduction of African cheetahs into India began on September 17, 2022, at Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh. This initiative aimed to restore a species that became extinct in India during the 1950s. The project faced opposition from wildlife conservationists who raised concerns about ecological suitability, funding, and the ethics of introducing a non-native species. Despite these challenges, the project has progressed, with 24 cheetahs currently in Kuno, including 12 cubs born there.
Background of Cheetah Extinction
Cheetahs were once part of India’s diverse wildlife. Their extinction in the 1950s marked loss for biodiversity. The reintroduction project aims to restore this iconic species to the Indian ecosystem.
Initial Challenges Faced
Upon their arrival, many cheetahs faced health issues. Some died due to various causes, including drowning and infighting. The project has struggled to release cheetahs into the wild due to their tendency to wander and the dangers they face outside the bomas.
Current Status of the Project
As of now, cheetahs remain confined to enclosures. A cautious release trial occurred on December 4, 2023, with two cheetahs being tested for adaptability. Future plans include establishing additional populations in other wildlife sanctuaries and creating a cheetah corridor across multiple states.
Concerns About Habitat and Prey
A major concern is the availability of prey. The prey density in Kuno has declined, raising questions about the sustainability of the cheetah population. The projected cheetah corridor may not support a viable prey base, posing risks of human-wildlife conflict.
Human-Wildlife Conflict and Local Impact
The introduction of cheetahs could exacerbate conflicts with local communities. Farmers may face threats to livestock, leading to potential retaliatory actions against the cheetahs. The project aims to create tourism-based jobs, but these benefits may not materialise if conflicts arise.
Potential Solutions – Fencing and Management
Experts suggest that fencing protected areas could mitigate human-wildlife conflict. Fenced reserves can provide a safe habitat for cheetahs while protecting local communities. This approach has shown success in other countries and could be adapted to India’s unique landscape.
Lessons from Global Conservation Practices
India’s wildlife conservation model differs from those of countries with more extensive wildlands. Learning from successful international practices, such as fencing and habitat management, could enhance the chances of success for the cheetah reintroduction project.
Future Directions
The project’s future hinges on addressing ecological and social challenges. Effective management strategies, including habitat restoration and community engagement, will be crucial for long-term success. The focus must remain on creating a sustainable environment for both cheetahs and local populations.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the impact of introducing non-native species on local ecosystems, using the cheetah reintroduction in India as a case study.
- Critically discuss the role of community involvement in wildlife conservation projects and its implications for success.
- Analyse the challenges of managing human-wildlife conflict in densely populated regions, with reference to the cheetah project.
- Estimate the ecological benefits of establishing fenced protected areas for wildlife conservation in India.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the impact of introducing non-native species on local ecosystems, using the cheetah reintroduction in India as a case study.
- Non-native species can disrupt local food webs and competition with native species for resources.
- Cheetahs could affect prey populations, potentially leading to declines in native herbivores.
- Success of reintroduction depends on ecological compatibility and prey availability.
- Local ecosystems may face stress if cheetahs adapt poorly to their new environment.
- Monitoring is essential to assess long-term impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem health.
2. Critically discuss the role of community involvement in wildlife conservation projects and its implications for success.
- Community support is crucial for the success of conservation projects, encouraging local stewardship.
- Involvement can mitigate human-wildlife conflict by integrating local knowledge and practices.
- Communities benefit economically from conservation through eco-tourism and job creation.
- Resistance from locals can derail projects if their needs and concerns are ignored.
- Effective communication and engagement strategies enhance project sustainability and acceptance.
3. Analyse the challenges of managing human-wildlife conflict in densely populated regions, with reference to the cheetah project.
- Densely populated areas increase the likelihood of encounters between humans and wildlife.
- Livestock predation by cheetahs can lead to retaliatory killings by local farmers.
- Insufficient prey availability can push cheetahs into agricultural lands, exacerbating conflicts.
- Effective conflict management strategies are needed, such as compensation for livestock loss.
- Education and community engagement are essential to encourage coexistence and reduce fear.
4. Estimate the ecological benefits of establishing fenced protected areas for wildlife conservation in India.
- Fenced areas can enhance habitat protection, reducing human encroachment and poaching.
- They allow for stable populations of wildlife, encouraging biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
- Fencing can help maintain prey populations, benefiting predator species like cheetahs.
- Controlled environments enable effective management of species reintroductions and breeding.
- Fenced reserves can facilitate eco-tourism, generating revenue for conservation efforts.
