Article 2: Wildlife Conservation Governance
Why in News: India’s Project Cheetah at Kuno National Park has shown recovery success through advanced veterinary interventions, highlighting progress in wildlife conservation.
Key Details
- India reintroduced cheetahs under Project Cheetah (2022) after extinction in 1952.
- Multiple cheetahs at Kuno were treated for fractures, infections, and amputations.
- Veterinary teams successfully managed complex cases like bone fractures and osteomyelitis.
- The programme is now considered stable and evolving, with native-born cheetahs surviving.
Project Cheetah: Reintroduction Initiative
- India’s First Intercontinental Translocation: Project Cheetah involves translocation of cheetahs from Namibia and South Africa, marking the world’s first large carnivore intercontinental relocation.
- Historical Context of Extinction: Cheetahs were declared extinct in India in 1952 due to hunting, habitat loss, and ecological imbalance, making reintroduction a restoration effort.
- Ecological Objective: The project aims to restore grassland ecosystems and improve biodiversity by reintroducing an apex predator that regulates prey populations.
- Location Significance: Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh was selected due to its adequate prey base, habitat suitability, and low human interference.
Veterinary Science and Wildlife Management
- Advanced Clinical Interventions: Cases like Mukhi’s humerus fracture and Nirva’s bone infection required X-rays, immobilisation, surgery, and antibiotics, showing integration of modern veterinary science.
- Handling High-Speed Injury Risks: Cheetahs are prone to injuries due to speeds up to 100 km/h, leading to fractures and soft tissue damage during hunts or territorial fights.
- Amputation and Rehabilitation: Complex procedures such as tail amputation and digit removal highlight the capacity for surgical intervention and post-operative care in wildlife conservation.
- Institutional Capacity Building: Indian forest and veterinary staff have developed expertise in wildlife rehabilitation, reducing dependence on foreign specialists.
Conservation Biology and Ecosystem Restoration
- Role of Apex Predators: Cheetahs help maintain ecological balance by controlling herbivore populations, thus preventing overgrazing and habitat degradation.
- Grassland Ecosystems Focus: India’s grasslands are often neglected compared to forests, but projects like this bring attention to their role in biodiversity conservation.
- Genetic Diversity Challenges: Imported cheetahs raise concerns about genetic adaptation, survival rates, and long-term sustainability in Indian conditions.
- Human-Wildlife Interface: Ensuring minimal conflict with local communities is essential, requiring buffer zones, compensation mechanisms, and awareness programs.
Policy Framework and Institutional Mechanisms
- Legal Backing: Wildlife conservation in India is governed by the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which provides legal protection to endangered species.
- National Biodiversity Goals: The project aligns with India’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and biodiversity conservation targets.
- Role of Government Agencies: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and state forest departments coordinate implementation and monitoring.
- Use of Technology: GPS collars, surveillance systems, and digital radiography tools are used for tracking and health monitoring of animals.
Challenges and Criticism
- High Mortality Concerns: Initial deaths of some cheetahs raised questions about habitat suitability and adaptation stress.
- Climate and Habitat Differences: Indian conditions differ from African savannas, posing challenges in temperature tolerance and prey behaviour adaptation.
- Long-Term Sustainability: Maintaining a viable breeding population requires continuous monitoring, genetic management, and habitat expansion.
- Resource Allocation Debate: Critics argue about prioritising cheetahs over other endangered native species like Great Indian Bustard or Asiatic Lion.
Success Indicators and Emerging Outcomes
- Birth of Native Cubs: The birth and survival of cubs like Mukhi’s offspring indicate successful adaptation and reproduction.
- Improved Veterinary Response: Timely medical interventions have resulted in 100% recovery in documented injury cases.
- Capacity Enhancement: Indian wildlife management systems are becoming self-reliant and technically advanced.
- Global Recognition: The project positions India as a leader in innovative conservation strategies and species reintroduction.
Conclusion
Project Cheetah reflects a holistic conservation model combining ecology, science, and governance. Strengthening habitat management, ensuring genetic diversity, enhancing community participation, and adopting adaptive strategies are crucial for long-term success. The initiative demonstrates that conservation is a continuous, evolving process requiring scientific innovation and institutional commitment.
EXPECTED QUESTION FOR UPSC CSE
Prelims MCQ
Q. Project Cheetah aims to:
(a) Conserve Asiatic lions
(b) Reintroduce cheetahs in India
(c) Protect wetlands
(d) Increase forest cover
Answer: (b)