International Big Cat Alliance: India Joins Simplifier

INTERNATIONAL BIG CAT ALLIANCE:INDIA JOINS-SIMPLIFIER

1. What Is the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)?

The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a multi-country and multi-agency coalition launched on April 9, 2023, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to commemorate 50 years of India’s Project Tiger. It aims to secure the future of seven big cat species—tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, puma, jaguar, and cheetah—through international cooperation and conservation efforts.

2. What Are the Key Objectives of the IBCA?

• Big Cat Conservation: To protect and conserve big cat species and their habitats globally.

• Climate Change Mitigation: To use big cat conservation as a tool for natural climate adaptation, water and food security, and to support communities dependent on these ecosystems.

• International Cooperation: To foster collaboration among countries, organizations, and businesses for mutual benefits in big cat conservation.

3. Which Countries Are Part of the IBCA?

As of now, four countries have become formal members of the IBCA: India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, and Somalia. Additionally, 24 countries (including India) have consented to be members, and nine international organizations have agreed to partner with the IBCA.

4. How Many Countries Are Eligible to Join the IBCA?

The IBCA aims to include 95 big cat range countries, non-range countries interested in big cat conservation, and other stakeholders such as scientific organizations, conservation partners, and corporates. All UN member countries are eligible to become members of the IBCA.

5. What Is India’s Role in the IBCA?

India is a founding member of the IBCA and hosts its headquarters. The Union Cabinet approved a proposal for India to join the IBCA with a budgetary support of ₹150 crore for five years (2023-24 to 2027-28). India’s involvement underscores its leadership in global big cat conservation efforts.

6. What Are the Expected Outcomes of the IBCA?

• Enhanced Conservation Efforts: Strengthening global strategies to arrest the decline in big cat populations and reverse negative trends.

• Shared Best Practices: Establishing a centralized repository of successful conservation practices and personnel to strengthen the global conservation agenda.

• Sustainable Resource Use: Promoting sustainable use of natural resources to mitigate challenges related to climate change and ensure the well-being of communities reliant on these ecosystems.

7. How Does the IBCA Benefit Big Cat Conservation?

The IBCA brings together countries, organizations, and experts to work on a common platform, developing synergies to address big cat conservation challenges effectively. It supports the creation of a network that enables sharing resources, expertise, and financial support to protect these endangered species.

8. How Is the IBCA Funded?

The IBCA is funded through a one-time budgetary support of ₹150 crore approved by the Indian government for the period 2023-24 to 2027-28. Additional funding is expected from member countries, conservation organizations, and private sector contributions.

9. How Does the IBCA Align with India’s Environmental Goals?

The IBCA aligns with India’s broader environmental objectives, including biodiversity conservation and sustainable management of natural resources. It complements India’s national initiatives like Project Tiger, Project Lion, and other wildlife conservation efforts, reinforcing the country’s role in global biodiversity preservation.

SYNOPSIS

India’s launch of the International Big Cat Alliance marks a significant step in global conservation efforts, aiming to secure the future of big cat species worldwide. With collaboration, shared knowledge, and targeted conservation measures, the IBCA seeks to protect these majestic animals and their habitats for future generations.

QUOTATION FOR ASPIRING CIVIL SERVANTS

“Leadership in conservation is not about power, but about the responsibility to protect our planet’s most vulnerable species.”

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