Kuno National Park has recently made headlines with the release of five more cheetahs, strengthening India’s ambitious Cheetah Reintroduction Project. Located in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh, this park is an essential hub for biodiversity conservation and a crucial part of India's wildlife preservation efforts.
About Kuno National Park
Location and Geography
Situated in Sheopur district, Madhya Pradesh, and extending into the Vindhyan Hills.
Named after the Kuno River, a tributary of the Chambal River, which flows through the park.
Historical Significance
Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1981.
Upgraded to a National Park in 2018, reflecting its ecological importance.
Initially proposed as a potential site for Asiatic lion relocation, now home to African cheetahs as part of the Project Cheetah initiative.
Ecological Features
Forest Type
Classified under the Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forest region.
This type of forest is characterized by seasonal shedding of leaves and thrives in areas with dry climatic conditions.
Flora
Dominated by hardwood species that adapt to dry environments:
Kardhai (Anogeissus pendula) – known for drought resistance.
Salai (Boswellia serrata) – valued for medicinal properties.
Khair (Acacia catechu) – used in tanning and dyeing.
Fauna
Home to a rich variety of herbivores and carnivores that support ecological balance:
Spotted deer (Chital) – a primary prey species.
Sambar – India’s largest deer species.
Nilgai (Blue Bull) – the largest Asian antelope.
Barking deer (Indian Muntjac) – known for its distinctive alarm call.
Cheetah Reintroduction Project
Objective: To restore the extinct cheetah population in India, enhancing grassland ecosystems.
Origin: Cheetahs were declared extinct in India in 1952 due to hunting and habitat loss.
Global Collaboration: In 2022, African cheetahs were imported from Namibia and South Africa under this initiative.
Why Kuno?
Suitable Habitat: Open grasslands and scrublands mimic the cheetah’s natural habitat.
Prey Availability: Abundant herbivore populations provide a sustainable food source.
Conservation Focus: Designated for large carnivore rehabilitation, ensuring focused protection.
Significance of Kuno National Park
Biodiversity Conservation
Supports the protection of endangered species and grassland ecosystems.
Ecotourism and Economy
Boosts ecotourism in Madhya Pradesh, enhancing local livelihoods and promoting wildlife awareness.
Scientific Research
Provides a living laboratory for studying species reintroduction and ecosystem recovery.
Challenges and Concerns
Habitat Fragmentation:
Encroachment and human activities threaten wildlife corridors.
Human-Wildlife Conflict:
Potential conflicts may arise as cheetahs roam beyond the park boundaries.
Long-Term Viability:
Ensuring genetic diversity and sufficient prey populations is vital for the project’s success.
Way Forward
Strengthening Conservation Efforts:
Implementing community involvement programs to ensure local support.
Monitoring and Research:
Continuous radio-collar tracking and behavioral studies to monitor cheetah adaptation.
Policy Support:
Developing comprehensive wildlife policies to address human-animal conflicts and conservation finance.
UPSC Prelims Question
Q: Consider the following statements regarding Kuno National Park:
It is located in the Sheopur district of Madhya Pradesh and extends into the Vindhyan Hills.
The park was initially designated for the reintroduction of the Asiatic lion.
It falls under the tropical evergreen forest category.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
UPSC Mains Question
Q. Discuss the ecological and socio-economic significance of Kuno National Park, highlighting the challenges and prospects of the Cheetah Reintroduction Project in India.
(GS Paper 3 – Environment & Biodiversity)
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