Why in the News

• Gandhi Sagar is the second wildlife reserve, after Kuno National Park, selected to host African cheetahs as India attempts to revive the wild cat’s population. 
• As part of its efforts to prepare the Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary for the introduction of cheetahs by the end of 2025, the Madhya Pradesh forest department has translocated 17 of the 24 leopards in the sanctuary. 
• Announcing the move, the department also revealed that three leopards died in territorial fights in their new homes.

About the Sanctuary

• • Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in northwestern Madhya Pradesh, along the border with Rajasthan.
  • The Chambal River flows through the sanctuary, effectively dividing it into two parts.
  • It is a designated Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA).

• Flora:

• • • The sanctuary’s vegetation is characteristic of the Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion. 
    • Notable tree species include Khair (Acacia catechu), Salai, Kardhai, Dhawda, Tendu, and Palash.

• Fauna:

• • Herbivores such as Chinkara (Indian gazelle), Nilgai (blue bull), and Sambar deer are commonly observed.
  • Predatory species include the Indian leopard, Striped Hyena, and Jackal.