Why is collective action crucial for big cat conservation?
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Synopsis
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav calls for global cooperation in the conservation of big cats at the first IBCA Assembly. As India leads wildlife protection efforts, all range countries are urged to unite for a sustainable ecological future.
Key Takeaways
- Collective action is essential for the conservation of big cats.
- India is a leader in wildlife conservation efforts.
- The IBCA comprises 95 range countries working together.
- Minister Yadav emphasizes the need for international collaboration.
- The IBCA aims to unify strategies for the protection of seven major big cat species.
New Delhi, June 16 (NationPress) Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav on Monday highlighted the necessity of collective action to enhance the conservation and protection of the seven key big cat species and their natural environments, which play a crucial role in ensuring our ecological future and alleviating the negative impacts of climate change.
During his speech at the inaugural Assembly of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the conservation of big cats across range countries, Yadav pointed out that India has positioned itself as a global frontrunner in wildlife conservation, achieving significant milestones over the last ten years. He urged the big cat range countries to actively participate and collaborate in the initiatives and programs of this alliance.
The Assembly, which serves as the governing body of the IBCA, welcomed ministerial delegations from nine nations - Bhutan, Cambodia, Eswatini, Guinea, India, Liberia, Suriname, Somalia, and Kazakhstan.
It unanimously appointed Yadav as the President of the IBCA and endorsed S.P. Yadav as the Director General.
Formed by the Indian government, the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a coalition of 95 range countries dedicated to the conservation of seven big cats, including tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, and pumas.
"The Assembly ratified the outcomes of the first International Steering Committee meeting of the IBCA, which took place in April 2024, approved the Headquarters Agreement signed between IBCA and the Republic of India, and endorsed the Workplan, Rules of Procedure of the Assembly, along with the manual of staff and financial regulations of the IBCA. These elements will act as a structural foundation for the effective governance, operations, and collaborative initiatives of the International Big Cat Alliance," stated the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
The IBCA was established by the Indian government through the National Tiger Conservation Authority on March 12, 2024.
Its primary goal is to foster collaboration and synergy among range countries and other stakeholders, consolidating effective conservation practices and expertise to achieve a unified objective of big cat conservation worldwide.
Point of View
It is our responsibility to recognize the significance of international collaboration in wildlife conservation. The call for collective action by Minister Yadav at the IBCA Assembly underscores a crucial moment for global environmental policy. It’s essential that these initiatives focus on practical solutions and the unification of efforts across borders.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Big Cat Alliance?
The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a coalition formed by the Indian government comprising 95 range countries dedicated to the conservation of seven major big cat species.
Why is collective action important for big cats?
Collective action is vital for big cat conservation as it allows for shared resources, knowledge, and strategies among range countries to effectively protect these species and their habitats.
What are the main objectives of the IBCA?
The primary objectives of IBCA include facilitating collaboration among range countries, consolidating successful conservation practices, and achieving global conservation goals for big cats.
Who is the president of the IBCA?
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav has been unanimously endorsed as the President of the International Big Cat Alliance.
When was the IBCA established?
The International Big Cat Alliance was established by the Indian government on March 12, 2024.
