• Source:JND
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Following the introduction of cheetahs in Kuno National Park, preparations are nearly complete to relocate more cheetahs to the Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh. The sanctuary, located on the border of Mandsaur and Neemuch districts, is expected to welcome the cheetahs on April 20, according to Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav.

The announcement was made during a two-day national workshop on forest conservation and climate-friendly livelihoods in Bhopal. Speaking to reporters after attending the event with Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, the Union Minister said the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) discussed a comprehensive plan regarding cheetah relocation in its Friday meeting.

The minister said the NTCA meeting also addressed future plans to introduce cheetahs in Gujarat’s Banni Grasslands and discussed a detailed roadmap for Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary. A review meeting focused on the cheetah project is expected to be held at the Chief Minister’s residence.

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"The NTCA decided to hold a discussion on a comprehensive plan regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision made during the National Wildlife Board meeting. Also, a discussion was held to think on the work plan about Cheetahs to be introduced in Banni Grasslands of Gujarat, Gandhisagar sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh in future," Union Minister Yadav said as quoted by news agency ANI.

Highlighting Madhya Pradesh’s contribution to wildlife conservation, the union minister noted that the state is home to India’s 58th tiger reserve—the newly declared Madhav Tiger Reserve. He emphasised that Madhya Pradesh plays a significant role in forest conservation, eco-tourism and tribal welfare. 

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Madhya Pradesh Cabinet Minister Vijay Shah, who served as Forest Minister during the initial cheetah introduction, confirmed that all necessary preparations at Gandhi Sagar have been completed. He expressed confidence that the public will soon receive the official announcement about the cheetahs’ arrival.

Calling cheetah restoration a dream project of the Prime Minister and Union Forest Minister, Shah recalled his visits to Namibia and South Africa for the initiative. He said the project is progressing well, with Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary ready to host the animals soon.

(With ANI Inputs)