India Hosts First Assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance in New Delhi

India reaffirmed its global leadership in wildlife conservation by hosting the first Assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) in New Delhi. The event, chaired by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, gathered ministerial delegations from nine big cat range countries, laying the groundwork for an international alliance dedicated to the protection of seven major big cat species — Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma. The assembly marked a significant step towards collaborative global efforts to safeguard biodiversity.

Why in News?

The first-ever Assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) was held in New Delhi. India, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, has taken the lead in forming this global coalition for the conservation of big cats. The Assembly officially endorsed key leadership roles, strategic documents, and international commitments to big cat conservation.

What is IBCA?

• A global alliance initiated by India in March 2024.
• Formed under the aegis of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
• Comprises 95 countries that are natural habitats (range countries) for the seven big cat species.

Aim and Objectives

• Halt the decline of big cat populations worldwide.
• Strengthen global conservation efforts through collaboration, knowledge exchange, and financial/technical support.
• Protect habitats and ecosystems crucial for the survival of these apex predators.

Key Outcomes of the First Assembly

• Chaired by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, who was unanimously elected President of IBCA.
• S.P. Yadav was elected as the Director General.

Ratification of essential governance documents,

• Headquarters Agreement with India
• Workplan
• Rules of Procedure
• Financial Regulations
• Reaffirmed commitment by nine countries: Bhutan, Cambodia, Eswatini, Guinea, India, Liberia, Suriname, Somalia, and Kazakhstan.

Seven Big Cats Covered under IBCA

1. Tiger
2. Lion
3. Leopard
4. Snow Leopard
5. Cheetah
6. Jaguar
7. Puma

Background & Significance

• PM Modi announced the idea for IBCA during the 50th Anniversary of Project Tiger.
• India’s long-standing expertise in tiger conservation has positioned it as a leader in big cat protection.
• The alliance aims to be a model for multilateral environmental cooperation, mirroring the urgency of biodiversity preservation.
• Also promotes ecotourism, environmental education, and rural development through wildlife conservation.