Gandhi Sagar Designated as Madhya Pradesh's Second Cheetah Habitat under Project Cheetah

The Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with wildlife authorities, has announced that the Gandhi Sagar region in Madhya Pradesh will serve as the state's second designated habitat for reintroduced cheetahs. The decision comes under Project Cheetah, a national programme aimed at restoring the endangered species to suitable Indian landscapes.

Gandhi Sagar, a large reservoir and surrounding forested terrain, was evaluated for its prey base, water availability, and minimal human‑wildlife conflict potential. Experts concluded that the area meets the ecological criteria required for sustaining a viable cheetah population.

The designation follows the earlier establishment of a cheetah habitat elsewhere in the state, marking a significant step toward expanding the species' range in central India. Authorities plan to monitor the site closely, implement anti‑poaching measures, and engage local communities in conservation efforts.

Project Cheetah, launched by the central government, aims to introduce a small, genetically diverse cheetah cohort over the next few years. The Gandhi Sagar habitat will play a crucial role in providing a safe corridor and breeding ground for the cats as the programme progresses.

Stakeholders, including state forest officials and conservation NGOs, have welcomed the move, emphasizing its potential to boost biodiversity and eco‑tourism in the region while reinforcing India's commitment to global wildlife conservation.