Under the visionary leadership of the Gujarat government, a significant addition to the state’s rich wildlife ecosystem is underway with the establishment of a cheetah breeding centre in Banni, Kutch. Joining Gujarat’s existing populations of lions and leopards, this initiative aligns with the central government’s efforts to enhance biodiversity.
The Gujarat Forest Department, drawing from the experience of Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park, has undertaken extensive field visits to ensure the project’s success. Plans include a 500-hectare enclosure designed with water points, artificial sheds, forest lakes, and mound-like features to simulate a natural habitat. With an initial budget of ₹20 crore, the facility aims to create a sustainable environment for cheetah breeding.
A sprawling 14,000-hectare grassland is also being prepared to meet the cheetahs’ hunting needs. In a related move, wild animals kept in enclosures are now being reintroduced into forested areas, promoting a balanced ecosystem.
Gujarat is already home to a thriving wildlife population, boasting over 7.53 lakh animals, including peacocks, Nilgai (bluebuck), monkeys, leopards, and Indian gazelles. The avian population has also seen remarkable growth, with more than 20 lakh birds inhabiting the state. Notable sanctuaries like Thol Bird Lake Sanctuary and Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary have witnessed exponential increases in bird populations over the last 14 years.
In 2023, Gujarat’s wildlife census recorded 2.85 lakh peacocks, 2.24 lakh Nilgai, 2 lakh monkeys, over 1 lakh wild pigs, 9,170 deer, 6,208 Indian gazelles, 2,299 foxes, 2,274 leopards, and 1,484 civet cats. The state is also home to 674 lions and 680 dolphins, underscoring its rich biodiversity.
The cheetah breeding centre in Kutch is expected to further elevate Gujarat’s status as a hub for wildlife conservation and ecological balance.
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