International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

Why in the News?

• The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the establishment of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) with headquarters in India.
• A one-time budgetary support of Rs.150 crore for a period of five years from 2023-24 to 2027-28, was also approved.

About IBCA

The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a significant development in global wildlife conservation.

• India launched it in April 2023 during the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger.
• IBCA Headquarters: India.
• IBCA aims to be a game-changer in big cat conservation efforts.
  • It is a multi-country, multi-agency coalition of 96 big cat range countries, non-range countries
  • Interested parties to establish networks and develop synergies: Conservation partners, Scientific organizations, Business groups and Corporates.
• This will be a demonstrative step in a leadership position on big cat agenda, to bring range countries and others on a common platform.

IBCA signifies a unified approach to protecting the world's seven magnificent big cat species:

Tiger, Lion, Jaguar, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Puma and Cheetah

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What does IBCA aim for?

IBCA's primary goal is to foster international cooperation and strengthen existing conservation efforts. This will be achieved through several key objectives:

• Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building: The alliance will serve as a platform for exchanging expertise and best practices among member countries.
  • This will enhance the knowledge and capabilities of range countries to effectively conserve big cats.
• Standardized Practices: IBCA aims to develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for big cat conservation.
  • These SOPs will provide a unified approach to tackling issues like poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict.
• Combating Illegal Wildlife Trade: By addressing illegal wildlife trade, a major threat to big cats, IBCA hopes to significantly reduce poaching.
  • This may involve creating a clear set of guidelines for member countries to follow.
• Financial Sustainability: The alliance is designed to become self-sufficient after an initial period supported by India.
  • Funding will come from membership fees, contributions from various organizations, and the private sector.

Who are the Partners?

IBCA's success hinges on strong partnerships between various stakeholders:

• Range Countries: All 96 countries where big cats are found are crucial partners. Their active participation and commitment will determine the alliance's effectiveness.

• International Organizations: Collaboration with multilateral organizations will provide vital technical and financial support.
  • The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
  • The World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
• Conservation NGOs: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with extensive experience in big cat conservation will play a key role in on-ground implementation and knowledge sharing.
• Local Communities: The active involvement of local communities living alongside big cats is essential for successful conservation.
  • IBCA needs to find ways to empower these communities and ensure they benefit from conservation efforts.

What is the Scope and Coverage of IBCA?

IBCA's comprehensive approach covers a wide range of issues related to big cat conservation:

• Habitat Protection: The alliance will address habitat loss and fragmentation, critical threats to big cat populations. This may involve promoting habitat restoration and establishing corridors for safe movement.
• Anti-Poaching Measures: IBCA will work towards strengthening anti-poaching efforts by improving patrolling, intelligence gathering, and cooperation between law enforcement agencies.
• Enhanced Conservation Practices: Support scientific, community-based and technology-driven conservation solutions.
• Increased Global Cooperation: Foster collaboration between range countries, resulting in synergistic and impactful conservation efforts.
• Species Recovery Programs: For critically endangered species like the Amur leopard and the cheetah, the alliance will support recovery programs to increase their populations.
• Public Awareness and Education: Raising public awareness about the importance of big cats and the threats they face is crucial.
  • IBCA will play a role in educating communities and fostering a sense of responsibility towards these magnificent creatures.

The International Big Cat Alliance holds immense promise for the future of big cat conservation. By fostering international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and a multi-pronged approach, IBCA has the potential to ensure the survival of these iconic species for generations to come.

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