Manasi, a captive lioness at Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), delivered a cub on Thursday night, an occurrence that was last witnessed fourteen years ago. Dr V Clement Ben, additional principal chief conservator forest, Western Wildlife Region, said, “Manasi gave birth to a healthy and active cub at 9.40 pm. The lioness began nursing the newborn at 2.45 am on Friday.”

Assistant Conservator of Forest (ACF) Sudhir Sonawale, Range Forest Officer Niket Shinde and SGNP Veterinary Officer Dr Vinaya Jangle are also keeping a close watch on the lioness and the cub. Dr Jangle told mid-day that a den had been specially made for the lioness so that it could deliver the cub safely. The big cats are being monitored around the clock via CCTV cameras.