International Big Cat Alliance: India Hosts First Assembly in Delhi

International Big Cat Alliance holds its first assembly in Delhi with India taking the lead in global big cat conservation. Key leaders appointed and ₹150 crore committed.

India hosted the inaugural Assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) on 16 June 2025 in New Delhi, showcasing its growing leadership in global wildlife conservation Chaired by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, this meeting brought together ministerial delegations from nine countries—Bhutan, Cambodia, Eswatini, Guinea, India, Liberia, Suriname, Somalia, and Kazakhstan—to align on strategies for protecting seven iconic big cat species.

Global Coalition for Conservation

The IBCA, conceptualised by PM Narendra Modi and launched through the National Tiger Conservation Authority in March 2024, unites 95 range countries in the mission to conserve tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, and pumas. The Assembly marks the first collective gathering under this aegis

Leadership & Governance Framework

During the session, Bhupender Yadav was unanimously elected as IBCA’s first President, with S.P. Yadav appointed Director General. Key structural instruments—including the Headquarters Agreement with India, the Workplan, Rules of Procedure, staff manuals, and financial protocols—were formally ratified to establish IBCA’s secretariat and operational model

India’s Role & Financial Backing

India will host the IBCA secretariat in New Delhi, reinforcing its commitment as a central facilitator. A funding commitment of ₹150 crore has been earmarked for FY 2023–28, supporting conservation initiatives, capacity-building, awareness campaigns, and technical cooperation

Strategic Objectives

The Assembly emphasised the need for joint action to:

• Reverse the decline of big cat populations
• Safeguard natural habitats
• Combat poaching and illegal wildlife trade
• Enhance resilience to climate change through biodiversity conservation

Bhupender Yadav underscored the critical role of collective engagement in securing ecological futures

Why This News Is Important

For Government Exams Preparation

This event is significant for UPSC, PSC, SSC, and other state-level exams under Environment & Ecology syllabus. It highlights international conventions, institutional frameworks, and India’s leadership in biodiversity protection.

Bridging Biodiversity & Climate

Big cats serve as umbrella species, the protection of which safeguards broader ecosystems. With global wildlife under pressure from climate change and habitat loss, the IBCA’s multilateral approach becomes crucial.

Leveraging PM-led Diplomacy

Launched by PM Modi during the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger in April 2023, IBCA showcases India’s diplomatic strength in environmental stewardship. Its headquarters status enhances India’s influence in global conservation platforms.

Resource Allocation & Institutional Setup

A budget allocation of ₹150 crore and the legal ratification of governance documents signify operational readiness—key themes for aspirants studying government schemes and institutional structures.

Multinational Cooperation

Participation of nine countries and a total of 95 range nations reflects India’s ability to convene global stakeholders, reinforcing its role in international treaties and cooperative ventures—vital for examination essays and ethics papers.

Historical Context

Evolution from Project Tiger

India’s flagship Project Tiger began in April 1973 to combat tiger decline After decades of success—including over 3,600 wild tigers currently—the country sought to scale its model globally.

Birth of IBCA

PM Modi announced the International Big Cat Alliance in April 2023 to commemorate 50 years of Project Tiger Physical implementation moved forward in March 2024 under NTCA’s aegis, culminating in the launch of IBCA’s legal framework and Secretariat.

Operational Framework

Securing Cabinet approval in February 2024, followed by ratification of governing instruments, the IBCA officially took shape. The first Steering Committee convened in April 2024, setting stage for the Assembly held in June 2025

Key Takeaways from IBCA Assembly

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)?

IBCA is a global initiative launched by India to bring together countries that are home to big cat species like tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, and pumas. Its goal is to ensure the conservation of these animals through international cooperation.

2. When and where was the first assembly of IBCA held?

The first assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance was held on 16 June 2025 in New Delhi, India.

3. Who has been appointed as the President and Director General of IBCA?

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav was appointed as the President, and S.P. Yadav was selected as the Director General of IBCA.

4. What is India’s role in the IBCA?

India is hosting the IBCA Secretariat in New Delhi and has committed ₹150 crore from FY 2023–2028 for various conservation efforts and institutional development.

5. Why is the protection of big cats important for the environment?

Big cats are apex predators and act as umbrella species. Protecting them helps preserve entire ecosystems, which is essential for biodiversity and climate resilience.

Some Important Current Affairs Links