Madhya Pradesh Announces Third Cheetah Habitat in Nauradehi Sanctuary
In a landmark decision for wildlife conservation, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has declared that the Rani Durgavati Sanctuary in Nauradehi will be developed as the state's third dedicated habitat for cheetahs. The announcement was made during a cabinet meeting convened at the state secretariat in Bhopal on Tuesday.
Cheetah Population Thrives in Kuno National Park
The significant move comes just a day after Namibian female cheetah Jwala gave birth to five cubs at Kuno National Park, pushing the total count of the feline species in the state past the 50 mark. "Cheetahs will soon be released there," CM Yadav informed the council of ministers, emphasizing that the animals are adapting well to their environment and flourishing under proper care at Kuno.
"With the recent arrival of five new cubs, the cheetah family has become even more prosperous," the Chief Minister stated. He added that the government plans to release a few cheetahs to Nauradehi within two months, establishing the new protected facility as the third home for the species after Kuno National Park and the Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary.
Expanding Wildlife Conservation Efforts
In another major boost to the state's biodiversity initiatives, CM Yadav revealed plans to release crocodiles, endangered Indian gharials, and turtles into various water bodies across Madhya Pradesh. This initiative aims to enhance the rich ecological diversity of the region and support the conservation of multiple threatened species.
Cabinet Approves Rs 33,240 Crore for Key Schemes
In a parallel development, the council of ministers approved a substantial budget allocation of Rs 33,240 crore to ensure the continuation of important schemes across seven departments. This funding is earmarked for the period from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2031, securing long-term support for critical governmental programs.
Youth Internship and Tax Exemption Initiatives
The cabinet also greenlit Rs 190 crore for the 'Chief Minister's Young Interns for Good Governance Programme', a three-year initiative designed to provide hand-holding support to young interns. The Department of Public Service Management has been authorized to develop procedures and guidelines for its implementation.
In a move to support persons with disabilities, the Cabinet approved the continuation of professional tax exemption under the Madhya Pradesh Vritti Kar Act, 1995, until March 31, 2030.
Additional Cabinet Decisions
Other key approvals include:
- Rs 37.50 crore over five years for the 'One District–One Product' initiative, focusing on the preservation, development, and marketing of traditional products in seven selected districts.
- Creation of seven new posts, including a junior division civil judge, for establishing a civil court in Chitrangi, Singrauli district.
- Opening of three new ESIC dispensaries in Maihar, Kaimor (Katni district), and Nimrani (Khargone district), along with 51 posts for doctors and paramedical staff.
- Implementation of the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), where the state government will provide SGST on the central share as equity capital to power distribution companies, rather than as a grant.
These comprehensive decisions underscore the Madhya Pradesh government's commitment to wildlife conservation, public welfare, and infrastructural development, marking a significant step forward in the state's administrative and ecological progress.
