The 1st assembly of the IBCA convened in New Delhi, endorsed the India's Union Minister of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav, as the President of IBCA.
- The Assembly of the IBCA serves as its apex decision-making body and is convened at least once every 2 years.
About IBCA
- It is a multi-country, multi-agency coalition of 95 big cat range countries, non-range countries with an interest in big cat conservation.
- These Big Cats include Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar & Puma. (refer to table)
- Genesis: Launched in April 2023 (occasion of 50 years of India's Project Tiger)
- Main Goal: To foster collaboration and synergy by establishing a platform dedicated to sharing best practices in big cat conservation.
- Founding Members (16): Armenia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ecuador, India, Kenya, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Nigeria, Peru, Suriname, & Uganda.
- India is the host country & Secretariat for the IBCA.
Significance of protecting big cats & their habitats
- Protects Biodiversity: As Keystone species big cats balance ecosystems and safeguard biodiversity.
- Climate Change Mitigation: Protecting big cat habitats safeguards forests, water sources, and carbon sinks, aiding in climate change mitigation.
- Supports economy: Providing livelihood opportunities and promoting ecotourism.
