India and IBCA Formalize Pact to Strengthen Global Big Cat Conservation Efforts

The Government of India and the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) took a significant step toward global wildlife preservation. They made an official agreement. They signed a Headquarters Agreement on April 17, 2025, in New Delhi. The accord was signed by Shri P. Kumaran, Secretary (East) at the Ministry of External Affairs, and Dr. S.P. Yadav, Director General of IBCA.

The agreement solidifies India as the host country for IBCA’s Headquarters and Secretariat. It outlines essential arrangements. These include visa facilitation, privileges and immunities for IBCA personnel, and operational premises. There are provisions to support the organization’s objectives and day-to-day functioning. It also allows for supplementary agreements and stipulates the framework for its implementation.

The Indian government supports the initiative. It has pledged a financial outlay of ₹150 crore for a five-year period (2023–24 to 2028–29). This funding will aid in establishing a permanent corpus, developing necessary infrastructure, and covering operational costs.

The Hon’ble Prime Minister of India inaugurated IBCA on April 9, 2023. This occurred during a special event in Mysuru marking 50 years of Project Tiger. The alliance focuses on the conservation of seven major big cat species—Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma.

IBCA aims to foster international cooperation. It seeks to streamline conservation strategies and share expertise. IBCA aspires to create a united global front to safeguard these iconic predators and their habitats. The agreement further highlights India’s growing leadership role in international wildlife conservation and its ongoing commitment to protecting biodiversity.