Bhopal May 22, 2026. Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Thursday projected Madhya Pradesh as a fast-emerging leader in biodiversity conservation, saying the state was trying to build a natural ecosystem where wildlife and development move together. Addressing the pre-summit event of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) at the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM) in Bhopal on International Biodiversity Day, the Chief Minister said Madhya Pradesh was now witnessing a new era of wildlife restoration and ecological awareness.

Dr. Yadav said Madhya Pradesh today proudly carries the identity of being India’s “Cheetah State.” He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav for giving strong support to Project Cheetah, which helped reintroduce the species in Kuno National Park after nearly seven decades. Calling it a “miraculous example” of wildlife rehabilitation, he said forest officials in Madhya Pradesh had created a new and secure home for cheetahs despite several initial challenges. The Chief Minister said the state government was not limiting itself only to cheetah conservation. Efforts were also underway for the protection and rehabilitation of vultures, gharials, turtles and several rare reptile species. He revealed that preparations were being made to introduce king cobras and rhinos in the state in future. Wildlife rescue centres are also being established near national parks so that injured animals can receive immediate medical care and rehabilitation support.

Dr. Yadav linked wildlife conservation with India’s civilisational values. Referring to Sanatan traditions, he said forests should remain home to every living creature and coexistence with nature has always been part of Indian culture. He also highlighted the state government’s large water conservation drive running from Gudi Padwa to Ganga Dussehra. According to him, thousands of ponds, bawdis, rivers and water sources are being revived with active public participation across Madhya Pradesh.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav used the occasion to underline the importance of protecting biodiversity in daily life. He said nature continues to provide food, medicine and survival to humanity, regardless of growing industrialisation and technology. “If we cannot create nature, at least we should not destroy it,” he remarked while urging collective environmental responsibility. The Union Minister also praised the Madhya Pradesh government for the complete disposal of toxic waste linked to the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, describing it as a significant environmental achievement under Dr. Mohan Yadav’s leadership. He appreciated the state’s continued efforts in wildlife conservation, especially Project Cheetah. The event reflected both conservation concerns and growing environmental optimism. Rescue bikes and a wildlife rescue truck were flagged off during the programme. Short films on biodiversity heritage and cheetah conservation were screened, while biodiversity reports, brochures and digital platforms were also launched. Experts, wildlife officials and policymakers from different sectors participated in discussions focused on strengthening conservation efforts in the coming years.