India, Oct. 5 -- An Indian-born cheetah has given birth to five cubs in Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh's Sheopur district, taking the total number of the big cats in the country to 60, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said on Monday.

The father is a cheetah brought from Botswana and the birth of these cubs marks the beginning of the Botswana lineage in India, adding a new genetic lineage to the country's growing cheetah population, a government statement said.

Congratulating veterinarians, forest officials, field staff, and the management team associated with Project Cheetah, Yadav said their dedication, commitment, and tireless efforts are continuously progressing the cheetah restoration journey in India.

"KJP21, a female cheetah born...