International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

Source- The post on International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is based on the article “Ministry achieves 100 days target on the International Big Cat Alliance” published in the PIB on 21st August 2024.

Why in News?

The Union Cabinet approved India’s membership in the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) by ratifying the Framework Agreement on the establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA).

About International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

1.  The IBCA was launched on April 9, 2023, during the commemoration of 50 years of India’s Project Tiger.

2. Aim: It aimed at securing the future of big cats and their habitats.

3. Focus: The IBCA focuses on the conservation of seven big cats: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Puma, Jaguar, and Cheetah. Out of these, five are found in India (Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, and Cheetah).

4. Headquarters: The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the IBCA Headquarters in India.

5. Membership: So far, four countries, including India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, and Somalia, have become members of IBCA. Additionally, nine international organizations have partnered with the Alliance.

Objectives and Scope of IBCA

1. Global Multi-Country Coalition: IBCA is envisioned as a multi-country, multi-agency coalition involving 95 big cat range and non-range countries, along with conservation partners, scientific organizations, and businesses.

2. Centralized Conservation Platform: The IBCA aims to establish a common platform for sharing successful conservation practices, technical know-how, and financial resources to arrest the decline in big cat populations.

3. Gold Standard Conservation Practices: The IBCA focuses on disseminating gold-standard practices for big cat conservation and providing access to a central repository of knowledge.

4. Collaboration and Synergy: Through its collaborative platform, the IBCA will strengthen species-specific intergovernmental initiatives and transnational efforts on big cat protection.

5. Addressing Climate Challenges: The Alliance will also mitigate challenges from climate change by safeguarding big cat habitats, contributing to climate adaptation, water and food security, and the well-being of communities dependent on these ecosystems.

 India’s Role and Global Leadership

1.  India’s role as a founder member of IBCA demonstrates its leadership in the global conservation of big cats, solidifying its commitment to the long-term conservation agenda.

2. India’s involvement will foster cooperation among countries, promoting mutual benefits and a deeper understanding of big cat conservation worldwide.

UPSC Syllabus: Environment