First International Declaration on Big Cats Under Discussion Ahead of Global Summit in New Delhi
In the works, first international declaration on big cats – in New Delhi
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is preparing the New Delhi Declaration, the first international agreement on big cat conservation, ahead of a global summit in June. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will join heads of state to discuss critical issues affecting big cats, including habitat connectivity and wildlife crime prevention.
- 01The New Delhi Declaration will be the first international agreement on big cat conservation.
- 02The global summit is scheduled for June 1, 2024, following the Fourth India-Africa Forum Summit.
- 03IBCA currently has 24 member countries, including 10 from Africa.
- 04The declaration aims to enhance habitat connectivity and combat wildlife crime.
- 05India is actively involved in big cat conservation efforts, including tiger translocation projects.
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The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), based in New Delhi, is working on the New Delhi Declaration, which aims to be the first international agreement focused on big cat conservation. This declaration will be presented at a global summit on June 1, 2024, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to participate alongside heads of state from member countries. The IBCA currently includes 24 member countries, with 10 African nations among them, and aims to strengthen cooperation on wildlife crime prevention, promote habitat connectivity, and advance a One Health approach that links wildlife, livestock, and human health. The IBCA was launched on April 9, 2023, during the commemoration of 50 years of Project Tiger. The summit will also encourage more countries to join the alliance, which addresses the challenges faced by seven big cats—Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Snow Leopard, Puma, and Jaguar—across 95 range countries worldwide. These apex predators play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance but are threatened by factors such as deforestation and poaching. India's commitment to big cat conservation is further demonstrated through ongoing projects, including the reintroduction of cheetahs from Africa and plans for tiger translocation to Cambodia.
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The New Delhi Declaration and the upcoming summit could enhance international cooperation on wildlife conservation, directly impacting local ecosystems and communities dependent on these species.
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