Union Cabinet Establishes International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

On 29th February, the Union Cabinet announced the formation of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) with Rs 150 crore budgetary support for a period of five years from 2023-24 to 2027-28.

Key Points

Objective and Origins: PM launched the initiative in April 2023, aiming to conserve lions, tigers, leopards, cheetahs, snow leopards, jaguars, and pumas.
Membership and Structure: Modelled after the International Solar Alliance, IBCA includes 96 big cat range countries, along with non-range countries, conservation partners, and scientific organizations.
Organizational Setup: IBCA proposes an assembly of members, a standing committee, and a secretariat in India. The Environment Ministry will appoint an interim director general until a permanent office-bearer is elected.