India Leads the Way with the Establishment of International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

In a groundbreaking move, the Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given the nod for the establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), reinforcing India's commitment to global conservation efforts. With a one-time budgetary support of Rs.150 crore allocated for a period of five years (2023-24 to 2027-28), the IBCA aims to spearhead collaborative efforts in protecting and preserving big cats and their ecosystems.

India, recognized for its leading role in conserving tigers and other big cats, has taken a proactive stance in forming the IBCA. The idea was initially proposed by Prime Minister Modi during the Global Tiger Day in 2019 and was officially launched on April 9, 2023, commemorating 50 years of India's Project Tiger. The alliance is envisioned as a multi-country, multi-agency coalition comprising 96 big cat range countries, non-range countries interested in conservation, industry partners, and scientific organizations.

The IBCA will focus on sharing successful conservation practices, establishing networks, and developing synergies to strengthen the global conservation agenda. The alliance encompasses seven big cats, including Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Puma, Jaguar, and Cheetah, with five of these species found in India.

The objectives of IBCA are diverse, ranging from knowledge sharing, capacity building, and networking to advocacy, financial support, research, and technical assistance. With the alliance serving as a collaborative platform, it aims to integrate biodiversity policies with sustainable development goals (SDGs), aligning conservation efforts with local needs. The governance structure includes an Assembly of Members, Standing Committee, and a Secretariat headquartered in India.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated the initiative, highlighting the potential technological boost it could provide to the Armed Forces. The IBCA's mission extends beyond conservation, aiming to contribute to natural climate adaptation, water and food security, and the well-being of communities dependent on these ecosystems. As a pioneer in this global alliance, India sets the stage for transformative conservation efforts, fostering cooperation among nations for mutual benefit and environmental resilience.