MP Kuno: Mukhi, first cheetah born on India’s soil, turns 3; from a tiny cub to a confident adult cheetah and now a mother
MP: Chief Minister Dr. Mohan stated that the third birthday of cheetah ‘Mukhi’, born in Kuno, is a moment of pride not only for the state but for wildlife conservation across the country.
The Indian-born cheetah ‘Mukhi’, born at Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh, completed three years of age on March 29. This marks an important milestone in the success of the project. The ‘Cheetah Project’ being implemented in Madhya Pradesh continues to set new benchmarks of success.
A symbol of India’s determination
The story of cheetah ‘Mukhi’ has become a symbol of India’s determination to reintroduce cheetahs, along with exemplary scientific management and commitment to conservation. A special and emotional atmosphere was witnessed at Kuno National Park on March 29 as Mukhi celebrated her third birthday.
From a tiny cub to a confident, fast-running adult cheetah and now a mother, Mukhi’s journey has been inspiring. Her story reflects that efforts toward cheetah conservation and rehabilitation in India are moving in the right direction.
Birth and Early Life Amid Challenges
Cheetah Mukhi was born on March 29, 2023, to ‘Jwala’, a cheetah brought from Namibia. She was the only survivor among a litter of four cubs, as her three siblings could not survive due to the severe heat. The initial circumstances were extremely challenging, but with continuous monitoring and care by veterinarians and wildlife experts at Kuno National Park, Mukhi has grown into a healthy cheetah.
Raised with Special Care
After the death of three cubs, the shocked mother, Jwala, rejected Mukhi as well. The Forest Department and veterinarians at Kuno took special care in raising her. She was trained and protected through scientific methods to adapt to Indian climatic conditions. As a result of dedicated and coordinated efforts, Mukhi developed into a strong and self-reliant cheetah.
Birth of the Second Generation of Cheetahs
In November 2025, at the age of just 33 months, Mukhi created history by giving birth to five healthy cubs. This was the first instance of an Indian-born cheetah giving birth in the country. With this, the second generation of cheetahs arrived on Indian soil, further strengthening the success of the ‘Cheetah Project’ in Madhya Pradesh and drawing global attention in the field of wildlife conservation.
Symbol of Success of Cheetah Project
Having completed three years of age, Mukhi is now fully grown and healthy, thriving in her natural habitat along with her cubs. This achievement demonstrates that the environment and wildlife management practices at Kuno National Park are suitable for supporting the natural life cycle of translocated cheetahs. Under the leadership of CM Dr. Mohan Yadav, the state government is promoting scientific management and innovation in wildlife conservation. Mukhi’s success has become an inspiring example not only for Kuno National Park but for wildlife conservation efforts across the country.
Steps Toward Rehabilitation at Gandhi Sagar
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav has taken significant initiatives to develop the Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary as a suitable habitat for cheetahs. He performed the Bhoomi Pujan for a ‘Soft Release Boma’ at the site, accelerating the process of establishing cheetahs at a new location and providing additional secure habitat in the future.
Inter-State Cooperation Strengthening Conservation Efforts
To further strengthen cheetah conservation, efforts are also underway to develop a joint cheetah conservation landscape between Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. This initiative will provide a new dimension to wildlife conservation at the regional level.
Boost to Eco-Tourism and Local Employment
The growing number of cheetahs is also increasing the potential for eco-tourism in the Kuno and Chambal regions, creating new employment opportunities for local youth and strengthening the regional economy.
Mukhi’s third birthday is not merely the success story of a single animal but an important milestone in the historic return of cheetahs to India. It demonstrates that with dedicated efforts and visionary leadership, Madhya Pradesh is achieving new milestones in wildlife conservation.