Context: International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) signed an agreement with the Government of India, formalising India as the headquarters and secretariat of this treaty-based intergovernmental organisation.
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts related to the International Big Cat Alliance.
International Big Cat Alliance
- IBCA is a multi-country, multi-agency coalition of 96 big cat range countries, and none-range countries.
- Launched by India in 2023 during the 50th year celebrations of Project Tiger.
- Focuses on the global conservation of seven big cats and their habits – the tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, puma, jaguar and cheetah.
- IBCA has become a treaty-based international organisation upon ratification by India, and other founding members.
- India has committed Rs.150 crore over five years for infrastructure development, administrative functions, and recurring expenses.
- It symbolises India’s commitment to "One Earth, One Family, One Future”, and showcases India’s role as a responsible ecological power.
Objectives of IBCA
- Global Collaboration: Create a platform for knowledge exchange, technical assistance, and joint conservation efforts.
- Research and Monitoring: Promote data sharing, habitat mapping, and genetic studies for better species management.
- Combat Illegal Wildlife Trade: Strengthen intelligence-sharing and enforcement cooperation against poaching and trafficking.
- Sustainable Development: Ensure that big cat conservation aligns with the goals of biodiversity, climate action, and local community livelihoods.