Lost No More? The Thrilling Quest to Rewild India with Genetically Revived Cheetahs

India is on the cusp of a scientific revolution as scientists are in a hurry to bring back the extinct Indian cheetah through cutting-edge gene-editing technology. The Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences and the Zoological Survey of India are almost done with whole genome sequencing of Indian cheetah samples that have been preserved. Their strategy: edit the genes of African cheetahs to add distinctive Indian features, and then give birth to these genetically modified cubs through surrogacy.

 

This ambitious project echoes international initiatives such as the recent "de-extinction" of the dire wolf in the US. But trouble is on the horizon. Of the 20 African cheetahs introduced to India's Kuno National Park since 2022, more than half have perished, prompting fears over habitat viability, prey bases, and dangers of introducing genetically edited animals. Experts warn that even if the science works, India's grasslands and conservation policies need to be prepared to host a viable cheetah population.

 

Though the government is hopeful, researchers emphasize that actual revival is not only a matter of DNA, but of building a healthy, secure environment for these legendary cats.

 

Source: Firstpost, Times of India, VisionIAS