Overview
On 7 October 2026, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav released two cheetahs, named Vyom and Neera, into the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve (VDTR). This marks the third cheetah habitat in the state after Kuno National Park and Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary. The release coincided with the closing day of ‘Wildlife Conservation Week’ and the launch of the vulture population estimation 2026 report.
Key Developments
- Two cheetahs released in VDTR; two more to arrive in November 2026.
- State allocated ₹80 crore from sanctuary revenues; ₹20 crore transferred to villages surrounding protected areas.
- Introduction of a homestay scheme with grants of ₹2‑3 lakh per household.
- Creation of a 439‑hectare secure zone equipped with modern bomas for cheetah acclimatization.
- CM highlighted Madhya Pradesh’s leadership in tiger, vulture, turtle, gharial and crocodile conservation.
Important Facts
The VDTR, also known as the Nauradehi Tiger Reserve, spans roughly 2,339 sq km across Sagar, Damoh and Narsinghpur districts. Established in 1997, it was declared a tiger reserve on 20 September 2023. The reserve hosts tigers, leopards, chital, sambar, nilgai, bears and several endangered vulture species.
Since the launch of Project Cheetah, the cheetah population in India has risen from eight to sixty individuals, indicating a positive trend for species revival.
Exam Relevance
Understanding the expansion of cheetah re‑introduction helps aspirants answer questions on wildlife conservation policies, inter‑state coordination, and the role of state governments in implementing central schemes (GS2). The financial allocation to local communities illustrates the link between conservation and rural livelihoods, a recurring theme in GS3 (Economy) and GS4 (Ethics). The use of bomas and the vulture population estimation report showcase scientific monitoring, relevant for questions on environmental impact assessment.
Way Forward
To sustain the cheetah population, the state should continue habitat expansion, ensure prey base restoration, and strengthen anti‑poaching measures. Scaling the homestay scheme can create alternative income for locals, reducing human‑wildlife conflict. Regular vulture surveys and community awareness programmes will help maintain the ecological balance of the reserve.