Namibian cheetah gives birth to five cubs in Kuno National Park; total count rises to 53

Jwala, the Namibian cheetah gave birth to five cubs on Monday (March 9, 2026) at Kuno National Park, taking the total number of the animal population in India to 53, Environmental Minister Bhupender Yadav said.

This comes days after Gamini, another cheetah, gave birth to four cubs at the same park.

In a post on X, Mr. Yadav said, “A moment of great pride for Project Cheetah as Jwala, the Namibian Cheetah and a successful third-time mother, gave birth to five cubs today at the Kuno National Park. With this birth, the number of Indian-born thriving cubs has risen to 33, marking the 10th successful cheetah litter on Indian soil—another important milestone in India’s cheetah conservation journey.”

This achievement reflects the dedicated efforts, skill, and commitment of the veterinarians, field staff and all involved who continue to work tirelessly on the ground, his post said.

With the arrival of these cubs, the total cheetah population in India has now reached 53, the Minister added.

“A historic and heart-warming moment for wildlife conservation. May Jwala and her cubs grow strong and race ahead, carrying India’s cheetah story to even greater heights,” Mr. Yadav said on X.