Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary

• About: Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in northwestern Madhya Pradesh, along the Madhya Pradesh-Rajasthan border, Spans 368 sq. km.

o The Sanctuary falls within the Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion.

o Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1974.

• Chambal River: Flows through the sanctuary, dividing it into two sections.
• Ecological Significance: Recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA).
• Topography & Vegetation: Characterized by hills, plateaus, and the catchment area of the Gandhi Sagar Dam.

o Vegetation Types: Northern tropical dry deciduous forests → Northern tropical dry mixed deciduous forests → Dry deciduous scrublands.

o Dominant Tree Species: Khair, Salai, Kardhai, Dhawda, Tendu, Palash.

• Historical & Cultural Significance: Houses several archaeological and historical sites, including Chaurasigarh Fort, Chaturbhujnath Temple, Bhadkaji Rock Paintings, Hinglajgarh Fort & Taxakeshwar Temple.
• About Cheetah Reintroduction in India:

o Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh, was the first site for cheetah reintroduction, receiving 8 cheetahs from Namibia and 12 from South Africa (2022–2023).

o Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary has now been selected as the second habitat to expand the cheetah’s range and ensure long-term conservation.