India became a founder member by signing and ratification of the Framework Agreement on the establishment of the IBCA.
- Apart from India, Nicaragua, Eswatini and Somalia have also joined IBCA .
About IBCA
- Genesis: On the occasion of commemorating 50 years of India's Project Tiger in 2023, India launched IBCA.
- Aim: Strengthen global cooperation for the conservation of seven big cat species (tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma) and their habitats.
- India inhabits all cats except Puma and Jaguar
- Multi-country and multi-agency coalition: Participants consist of 95 big cat range countries, non-range countries interested in big cat conservation, conservation partners and related scientific organizations.
- All UN member countries are eligible for becoming the member of IBCA.
- Nine International Organizations have also consented to be partner organization of IBCA.
- Funding: Support of Rs. 150 crores for five years from 2023-24 to 2027-28.
- HQ: India
Significance of protecting big cats and their habitats
- Keystone species: Saving predators also safeguard the intricate web of biodiversity within their ecosystem
- Keeping ecosystems healthy: As apex predators, their hunting keeps herbivore populations in check.
- Supports economy: Providing livelihood opportunities and promoting ecotourism.
Conservation Status of Big Cats in India
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