Re-introduction of Cheetahs in India a historic moment: PM Modi

Bhopal, Sep 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday termed the cheetah re-introduction plan as historic, adding that though India declared the big cat extinct in 1952, it is unfortunate that no constructive efforts were made to reintroduce them for decades.

PM Modi was speaking after releasing cheetahs flown in from Namibia into special enclosures in Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh.

He thanked the government of Namibia for help in the programme to reintroduce cheetahs in India.

"People will have to show patience and wait for a few months to see these Cheetahs in Kuno National Park. These Cheetahs have come as guests, unaware of this area. For them to be able to make Kuno National Park their home, we'll have to give these Cheetahs a few months' time," said PM Modi.

"Following international guidelines, India is trying its best to settle these cheetahs. We must not let our efforts fail," said PM Modi.

"It is unfortunate that we declared Cheetahs extinct from the country in 1952, but for decades no meaningful effort was made to rehabilitate them. Today, as we celebrate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, the country has started rehabilitating Cheetahs with a new energy," the prime minister added.

"Decades ago, the age-old link of biodiversity was broken and had become extinct, today we have a chance to reconnect it. Along with these cheetahs, the nature-loving consciousness of India has also awakened with full force," PM Modi added.

"Today, the Cheetahs have come back to our land after decades. On this historic day, I want to congratulate all Indians and also thank the government of Namibia. This could not have been possible without their help," he added.