MP: Rare Caracal Spotted in Kuno National Park After Decades, Evidence of Thriving Biodiversity of Kuno Region
MP Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has expressed happiness over the sighting of the rare Caracal (wild cat) in Kuno National Park in Sheopur after several decades. Photographs of the elusive feline were recently captured during a camera-trap survey, indicating its return to the forest landscape.
The caracal is one of India's most endangered wild cats; its estimated population is fewer than 50, remaining primarily in scattered pockets across Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
Forest officials and experts believe that efforts to restore the ecosystem and increase prey availability under 'Project Cheetah' have once again made Kuno's environment highly favorable for local and endangered species.
CM Dr. Yadav, reacting to the development, said that World Environment Day serves as a reminder of the importance of ecological balance and nature conservation. He stated that the return of the Caracal is not only evidence of the thriving biodiversity of the Kuno region but also reflects the positive outcomes of the State Government’s efforts towards wildlife conservation in the National Park.
CM Dr. Mohan Yadav said that the implementation of the ambitious Project Cheetah in Madhya Pradesh under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a new identity to wildlife conservation in the state. He noted that the objective of the project extends beyond the reintroduction of cheetahs and aims at strengthening the entire ecosystem.
Dr. Yadav said that the initiative also aims to conserve forest ecosystems, increase the population of rare wildlife species and develop safe and sustainable habitats for wildlife through innovative conservation measures.
CM Dr. Yadav added that Kuno National Park is emerging as a successful model of wildlife conservation and has gained national and international recognition for the successful implementation of Project Cheetah.