CM Mohan Yadav Releases Two Cheetahs in Rani Durgavati Reserve; Two More to Arrive Next Month
Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh's largest tiger reserve, the Veerangana Rani Durgavati (Nauradehi) Tiger Reserve, added a new chapter to its wildlife story on Wednesday when Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav released two cheetahs into the reserve. With this, Nauradehi has become the third cheetah habitat in Madhya Pradesh, following Kuno and Gandhi Sagar (Mandsaur). Two more cheetahs are expected to arrive next month.
The CM noted that Nauradehi differs from the other two locations as it is home to both tigers and cheetahs. He stated, "In time, tourists will be able to see both cheetahs and tigers in the same area."
Alongside the release of the cheetahs, attention was also paid to the people living around the reserve. Dr. Yadav emphasized that while wildlife conservation is crucial, safeguarding the livelihoods of local communities is equally important.
Villagers to be encouraged to start homestays
He announced that villagers living in the buffer zone would be encouraged to start homestays with government assistance. The government will also promote dairy farming and procure milk through cooperative societies, as animal husbandry can serve as a viable livelihood option in areas where agriculture is restricted.
Relief for large farmers under rehabilitation policy
Former Minister Gopal Bhargava expressed concern regarding the losses faced by large farmers due to the existing displacement policy. Dr. Yadav stated that the policy would be amended through a cabinet decision to ensure large farmers also receive fair benefits.
CM mentioned that the four cheetahs would gradually acclimatize to their new environment and eventually breed.
Addressing the villagers' concerns, he noted that forest officials had informed him that cheetahs generally avoid confrontations with humans. Dr. Yadav also highlighted Madhya Pradesh's wildlife conservation efforts, which include the protection of tigers and vultures, as well as the release of turtles and crocodiles into suitable water bodies. He emphasized the principle of "live and let live."
Prakash Kumar Pandey