A 32-month-old Indian-born female cheetah named KJP21 has given birth to five healthy cubs at Kuno National Park. This development marks an important milestone in the emergence of India's cheetah population.
In a significant step for Project Cheetah, KJP21, a 32-month-old Indian-born female cheetah, has given birth to five healthy cubs at Kuno National Park on October 5, 2026. This development brings the total cheetah population in India to 60, including 41 Indian-born cheetahs.
KJP21 is the third Indian-born female cheetah to give birth after Mukhi and KGP12, signifying an important milestone in the emergence of the next generation of India’s cheetah population. The arrival of these cubs also marks the beginning of the Botswanan lineage in India, as their father is a Botswanan male cheetah—adding a new genetic lineage to India’s growing cheetah population.
Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Bhupender Yadav shared this development on social media platform ‘X’. He described the birth of the five cubs as another generation of cheetahs born on Indian soil, adding a new chapter to the story of cheetah reintroduction in India. Shri Yadav conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to the veterinarians, field staff, managers and everyone associated with Project Cheetah, whose dedication, commitment and tireless efforts have made this development possible.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
