Q. With reference to the history of cheetahs in India, consider the following statements:

1. Cheetahs were declared extinct in India in the year 1972.
2. The last three known Asiatic cheetahs in India were killed by Maharaja Ramanuj Pratap Singh Deo.
3. Mughal Emperor Akbar had approximately 10,000 cheetahs during his reign, with about 1,000 housed in his court.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
Answer: 2 and 3 only
Notes:

Cheetahs were officially declared extinct in India in the year 1972.

Incorrect. Cheetahs were declared extinct in India in 1952.

The last three known Asiatic cheetahs in India were killed by Maharaja Ramanuj Pratap Singh Deo.

Correct. Maharaja Ramanuj Pratap Singh Deo of the princely state of Koriya is known to have killed the last three known Asiatic cheetahs in India in 1947. This event marked the end of the cheetah's presence in India.

Mughal Emperor Akbar had approximately 10,000 cheetahs during his reign, with about 1,000 housed in his court.

Correct. Emperor Akbar is said to have maintained around 10,000 cheetahs, with about 1,000 housed in his royal court. Cheetahs were highly valued for royal hunting expeditions during his reign, and their numbers were significant.