International big cat Alliance (IBCA)

March 9, 2023

India has proposed to launch a mega global alliance under its leadership to protect big cats and assured support over five years with guaranteed funding of USD 100 million (over Rs 800 crore).
IBCA aims to protect and conserve the seven major big cats — tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, puma, jaguar and cheetah.
India is the only country in world to have 5 big cats in wild (except pumas and jaguar).
IUCN Status:
- Endangered- Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Lions;
- Vulnerable- Snow Leopards, African Cheetahs;
- Least Concerned- Common Leopard.
IBCA Membership: Open to 97 “range” countries, which contain natural habitat of these big cats, as well as other interested nations, international organisations, etc.
IBCA’s governance structure
- General Assembly consisting of all member countries.
- Council of at least seven but not more than 15 member countries elected by General Assembly for 5 years term.
- Upon recommendation of Council, General Assembly will appoint IBCA Secretary General for a specific term.
Importance
- Big cats are apex predators whose loss can set off “trophic cascade,” wherein prey populations may explode, resulting in overgrazing and degrading health of landscape.
- Supports economies through ecotourism.