Why in news?
The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) will hold its inaugural summit in New Delhi on 1–2 June 2026. Delegates and experts from 95 big cat range countries (over 400 participants in total) will meet to adopt the Delhi Declaration, the first global document dedicated to big‑cat conservation. The announcement in May 2026 drew attention to India’s leadership in bringing together countries that host lions, tigers, leopards and other big cats.
Background
The alliance was launched on 9 April 2023 in Mysuru by the Indian government. It aims to coordinate efforts among the 95 countries harbouring populations of seven big cats – tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma. Modeled on the International Solar Alliance, the IBCA was set up as a treaty‑based organisation with one‑time financial support of ₹150 crore from India.
Pillars of the alliance
- Strengthening global cooperation: Member countries share best practices on habitat conservation, anti‑poaching patrols and community‑based tourism. The alliance also encourages South‑South collaboration and alignment with biodiversity and climate agreements.
- Policy synergy and resource mobilisation: The Delhi Declaration will promote joint funding mechanisms and integrate conservation plans into national development strategies. It seeks international finance to restore habitats, improve connectivity and combat illegal wildlife trade.
- Community engagement: Big cats often roam outside protected areas. The IBCA emphasises coexistence by involving local communities in monitoring and creating sustainable livelihood options like eco‑tourism.
- Knowledge exchange: Research and training programmes will focus on genetics, disease surveillance and rewilding. An international network of scientists and park managers will support monitoring across range states.
Significance
Big cats are apex predators that maintain the balance of the ecosystems they inhabit. India is home to five of the seven species and has successfully increased tiger numbers through Project Tiger. By spearheading the IBCA, India seeks to extend its conservation model globally and demonstrate that safeguarding wildlife can go hand in hand with development. The upcoming summit and the Delhi Declaration may strengthen global resolve to protect these charismatic animals and their habitats.