In a groundbreaking move for wildlife conservation, India has recently introduced the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) with a core mission to safeguard seven prominent big cat species worldwide. Building upon the triumph of Project Tiger, which has played a pivotal role in establishing India as the custodian of 70% of the global tiger population, the IBCA has set its sights on protecting and conserving vital big cat species, including the Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Puma, Jaguar, and Cheetah.
The genesis of this alliance dates back to July 2019 when Prime Minister Modi called upon global leaders to unite against poaching and illegal wildlife trade in Asia on Global Tiger Day. The formation of the International Big Cat Alliance stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment to the principles of this initiative. According to Modi, the alliance will play a crucial role in mobilizing financial and technical resources to ensure the conservation and protection of the entire ecosystem associated with these magnificent big cats.
Covering the natural habitats of 97 range countries, the IBCA seeks to strengthen international cooperation and collective efforts for the preservation of these wild denizens, particularly the majestic big cats. Through this alliance, India aims to share its knowledge, expertise, and best practices in conserving these species with other countries harboring significant big cat populations, such as Indonesia, Brazil, and South Africa.
In pursuit of its goals, the alliance intends to foster collaborations between governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector to develop sustainable solutions for conservation. As the populations of these magnificent animals face unprecedented threats from habitat loss, poaching, and human-animal conflicts, the launch of IBCA marks a significant stride towards their long-term preservation and well-being. With the world coming together under the banner of the International Big Cat Alliance, there is renewed hope for a future where these iconic species continue to roam free and thrive in their natural habitats.