NEWS – Cabinet approves establishment of International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

HIGHLIGHT

• Establishment of International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) with headquarters in India with a one-time budgetary support of Rs.150 crore for a period of five years from 2023-24 to 2027-28
• Seven big cats include Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Puma, Jaguar and the Cheetah out of these five big cats viz. Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard and Cheetah are found in India

INTERNATIONAL BIG CAT ALLIANCE (IBCA)

• Conceived on lines of International solar alliance in 2015
• Launched by India on April 9, 2023
• Aim – conservation of seven big cats, namely Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma
• Membership: Open to 96 ‘range’ countries
• It will provide a platform for the member nations to share knowledge and expertise and extend support to recovery efforts in potential habitats.
• Governance Structure:
  • A General Assembly consisting of all member countries.
  • A Council of at least seven but not more than 15 member countries elected by the General Assembly for a term of 5 years, and a Secretariat.
  • Upon the recommendation of the Council, the General Assembly will appoint the IBCA Secretary General for a specific term.