South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised to donate more cheetahs to India.
During his speech on day 2 of the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, Ramaphosa told Indian PM Narendra Modi: "You have come to the home of cheetahs. We were pleased as South Africa to donate cheetahs to India."
Ramaphosa commended India's commendable efforts in successfully reintroducing the majestic big cats, which had tragically become extinct in the country 70 years ago.
Additionally, he applauded India for diligently addressing the challenges faced by these magnificent creatures and consistently ensuring their welfare by providing regular updates on their status.
As part of India's Project Cheetah, a total of 20 radio-collared cheetahs were relocated to India’s Kuno National Park from Namibia and South Africa with the birth of four new cubs.
However, the project hit a low after the death of nine cheetahs, including three cubs, at one national park.