A leopard in central India was saved from drowning by forest department officials who rescued the big cat after it tumbled into a well, while trying to quench its thirst.

The incident took place in Barjhar village of Alirajpur district, Madhya Pradesh on June 21.

According to reports, the leopard visited the well to drink water on June 20.

However, the feline slipped and fell into the well only to be discovered by the locals the next morning.

The forest department officials were alerted and rushed to the spot along with police personnel to rescue the animal.

As soon as the rescue officials reached the spot they cleared the area of villagers who had gathered to get a glimpse of the animal.

A makeshift platform made out of cot was previously lowered by the villagers to prevent the animal from drowning.

Following this, the forest officials dropped a cage into the well trying to lure the leopard inside it.

After several attempts, the leopard entered the cage and was hauled out of the well.

The animal has been taken to Azadnagar from where it will be released into the jungle as directed by the senior officials.