India, known for its rich biodiversity, has proposed a new global alliance to protect the world’s seven major big cats. The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) will bring together 97 countries and organizations committed to protecting these animals. The IBCA’s focus is on preserving and increasing the population of big cats, including tigers, lions, jaguars, leopards, snow leopards, cheetahs, and clouded leopards, through international cooperation.
India’s Commitment to the IBCA
India has pledged to provide 100 million USD over five years to support the alliance, which will be used to develop conservation programs, create awareness, and fund research on the protection of big cats. After five years, the IBCA will be sustained through membership fees and support from other organizations.
Goals of the IBCA
The primary goal of the IBCA is to improve the conservation of big cats through coordinated efforts among countries and organizations. The alliance will share information on how to protect big cats and their habitats, promote the use of technology and innovation in conservation efforts, and facilitate the creation of international policies and legislation for their protection.
Governance Structure
The IBCA will be governed by a General Assembly and a council. The General Assembly, made up of member countries and organizations, will meet every three years to discuss and approve the alliance’s policies, programs, and budget. The council, which will meet annually, will have the responsibility of implementing the policies and programs approved by the General Assembly. The IBCA Secretary General will be appointed by the General Assembly based on the recommendation of the Council.
Why the IBCA is Necessary
Big cats are facing significant threats to their survival, including habitat loss, poaching, and conflicts with humans. As a result, their populations have declined drastically over the years, with some species on the brink of extinction. The IBCA aims to provide a unified platform for countries and organizations to work together to protect these magnificent animals.
India’s leadership in the IBCA
India has been at the forefront of efforts to protect big cats, and its success in conserving tigers is a testament to its efforts. India’s Project Tiger, launched in 1973, has been instrumental in increasing the population of tigers from around 1,400 in the 1970s to around 3,000 today. This initiative has been widely recognized as a model for tiger conservation worldwide. India’s success in tiger conservation is one of the reasons why it has taken the lead in proposing the IBCA.
