New Delhi : Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav released nine cheetahs brought from Botswana into quarantine enclosures at Kuno National Park on February 28, 2026. The animals will remain under acclimatisation and health monitoring before being gradually introduced into the larger landscape.
Sharing the update on social media, the minister said that the group comprises six females and three males. He noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Project Cheetah has made significant progress, with India now home to 48 cheetahs, including 28 cubs born in the country.
The transfer followed a series of coordinated steps between India and Botswana. In December 2024, discussions were initiated between the two governments to source cheetahs for strengthening conservation efforts. The proposal was taken forward by Bhupender Yadav in consultation with Botswana’s Environment and Tourism Minister Boipuso Wynter Mmolotsi.
Botswana agreed to partner with India, recognising the country’s comprehensive action plan for cheetah reintroduction. The collaboration aims to support global conservation efforts and establish an additional secure population of cheetahs outside their traditional African habitat.
An Indian delegation visited Botswana in September 2025 to finalise operational procedures, logistics and regulatory clearances in line with international wildlife translocation standards. After scientific assessments, cheetahs were identified in the Ghanzi region and transported to Gaborone under veterinary supervision.
During the visit of President Droupadi Murmu to Botswana in November 2025, the animals were formally handed over to the Government of India and placed in quarantine at Mokolodi Nature Reserve. Subsequent visits by Indian and Botswana delegations helped finalise arrangements for their transfer.
On February 27, 2026, the cheetahs were transported from Mokolodi Nature Reserve to Gaborone Airport and airlifted to India with the support of the Indian Air Force. After landing in Gwalior, the animals were flown by helicopter to Kuno National Park.
The minister also expressed appreciation to the Indian Air Force for ensuring the safe and seamless transportation of the cheetahs to India as part of ongoing conservation efforts.