Madhya Pradesh: Kuno wildlife division (KWD) expands, Madhav National Park becomes tiger reserve

BHOPAL: The recent expansion of the Kuno Wildlife Division (KWD) and the declaration of Madhav National Park (MNP) as Madhav Tiger Reserve (MTR) have marked a significant milestone in wildlife conservation efforts in Madhya Pradesh.

These changes have created a more structured and unified approach to wildlife management across the Kuno-Madhav landscape, strengthening both species conservation and habitat preservation. The latest newsletter from the Kuno National Park authorities highlights the importance of these developments.

For many years, the Kuno-Madhav region remained underdeveloped in terms of wildlife conservation, primarily due to the absence of a major carnivore species like the tiger or cheetah. The introduction of cheetahs in September 2022 and the relocation of tigers to Madhav National Park in March 2023 have brought renewed attention to the region. These developments, as stated in the official report, signify a turning point in the conservation landscape of Madhya Pradesh.
Significant expansion of protected areas

Prior to 2025, the Kuno Wildlife Division covered 1,235 square kilometres, including Kuno National Park, which spanned 748 square kilometres. Similarly, Madhav National Park occupied 375 square kilometres. These areas were deemed insufficient to support the sustained recovery and flourishing of large carnivores. However, the recent expansions have dramatically transformed the landscape, creating the space and ecological connectivity necessary for these species to thrive.

As part of these developments, Kuno Wildlife Division has been expanded by an additional 542.49 square kilometres, bringing its total area to 1,777 square kilometres. This includes 369.81 square kilometres from Sheopur Forest Division and 172.67 square kilometres from Shivpuri Forest Division. Likewise, Madhav National Park has been officially declared a tiger reserve, with a newly designated buffer zone spanning 1,276 square kilometres. As a result, Madhav Tiger Reserve now covers a total area of 1,651 square kilometres.

The integration of Kuno Wildlife Division and Madhav Tiger Reserve has led to the creation of one of the largest contiguous wildlife conservation areas in central India. From Karera in the east to the Rajasthan border in the west, a vast landscape of 3,428 square kilometres now falls under the jurisdiction of the Director of the Lion Project.

Unified administration for streamlined conservation

Previously, conservation efforts in this landscape were fragmented due to the involvement of multiple forest divisions, including Shivpuri and Sheopur. The lack of centralised management often led to delays and inconsistencies in implementing conservation strategies. However, with KWD and MTR now falling under a single administrative framework, wildlife management policies can be executed more efficiently. This integration ensures better coordination between conservation efforts and administrative decision-making.

The newsletter from Kuno National Park emphasises that these changes are crucial for adopting a landscape-level approach to conservation. The unified jurisdiction under the Director of the Lion Project is expected to improve the efficiency and long-term sustainability of wildlife protection measures.

A habitat for multiple large carnivores

Currently, the expanded Kuno-Madhav landscape supports a growing population of large carnivores. At present, 26 cheetahs inhabit Kuno Wildlife Division, while Madhav Tiger Reserve is home to six tigers, including cubs. The newly expanded and interconnected habitat significantly enhances the potential for establishing self-sustaining populations of these species.

Scientific studies, including the Wildlife Population Habitat Viability Analysis (PHVA), indicate that a larger, well-managed habitat is essential for ensuring the survival and genetic health of big carnivores. The increased connectivity between Kuno Wildlife Division and Madhav Tiger Reserve allows for greater movement of wildlife, reducing the risks associated with habitat fragmentation.

“The landscape approach to wildlife conservation is critical for species like tigers and cheetahs, which require large, connected habitats. The expansion of KWD and MNP under unified management provides a strong foundation for the future conservation of these iconic species,” said wildlife officers working in the region.

The expansion also presents a unique opportunity to manage three major carnivore species—cheetah, tiger, and leopard—within a single conservation framework. This model of integrated wildlife management is expected to serve as a reference for conservationists and policymakers across India.
A model for future conservation efforts

With the continued reintroduction of species like cheetahs and tigers, the region now holds immense potential to develop into a thriving ecosystem. The larger, interconnected landscape is expected to facilitate improved population viability, allow for easier implementation of conservation strategies, and maintain vital wildlife corridors for unhindered animal movement.

Experts believe that the Kuno-Madhav landscape, under the direction of the Lion Project, has the potential to become an international model for large-scale, integrated conservation efforts. The expansion of protected areas and the introduction of a unified administrative structure could serve as a benchmark for other wildlife conservation projects in India and beyond.

By prioritising habitat connectivity and long-term ecological balance, conservationists hope that the newly expanded Kuno-Madhav landscape will continue to be a safe haven for endangered species. The steps taken in Madhya Pradesh are now being closely observed as a case study in sustainable wildlife management, demonstrating how large-scale conservation planning can successfully restore biodiversity and ensure the long-term survival of threatened species.

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