The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) has officially been established as a treaty-based intergovernmental organization dedicated to the conservation of the world's seven major big cat species—tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, and pumas.
Formation & Headquarters
- The IBCA was initially proposed by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019.
- The formal launch took place in April 2023 to mark the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger in India.
- The alliance is headquartered in India, which has played a leading role in global tiger conservation.
Member Countries & Global Collaboration
- So far, 27 countries have joined the IBCA as founding members.
- The alliance also includes participation from global conservation organizations, national wildlife agencies, and NGOs working on big cat protection.
Objectives & Focus Areas
The IBCA aims to:- Strengthen efforts for the conservation of the seven big cat species.
- Prevent illegal wildlife trade and poaching of big cats.
- Enhance habitat protection and restore ecosystems.
- Facilitate scientific research and data-sharing on big cat populations.
- Encourage sustainable practices in human-wildlife conflict areas.
Financial Commitment
- India has committed Rs. 150 crore ($18 million USD) as a one-time budgetary support for the IBCA, covering a period of five years (2023-2028).
- Additional funding will come from international partnerships, conservation grants, and member contributions.
Significance of IBCA
- The IBCA marks a historic step in wildlife conservation, as it is one of the first international alliances focusing exclusively on big cats.
- Given the increasing threats like habitat destruction, climate change, and poaching, the IBCA provides a platform for joint conservation efforts across borders.
- It builds upon India’s success with Project Tiger, which has helped in the recovery of tiger populations in the country.
Why is This Important?
- Big cats play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance as apex predators.
- Their populations are declining due to deforestation, human-wildlife conflicts, and illegal wildlife trade.
- Global collaboration is necessary to ensure the survival of these majestic species.
The IBCA is expected to become a powerful force in global big cat conservation, driving policies, research, and action plans for their protection worldwide.
