India will host the inaugural summit of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) in New Delhi on June 1 and 2, bringing together global leaders, conservationists and policymakers to strengthen international efforts for the protection of the world’s seven big cat species.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Wednesday launched the official website and logo of the summit, describing the event as a major step towards enhancing global cooperation in wildlife conservation.
The summit, themed “Save Big Cats, Save Humanity, Save Ecosystem,” is expected to witness participation from Heads of State, government representatives and more than 400 experts from across the world.
The IBCA, launched in 2023 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, serves as a collaborative platform for countries that are home to big cat species including lions, tigers, leopards, snow leopards, cheetahs, jaguars and pumas.
Highlighting India’s conservation achievements, Yadav referred to initiatives such as Project Tiger and ongoing programmes aimed at protecting other big cat species. He said India has demonstrated that conservation and development can move forward together.
The minister said the summit would help strengthen international partnerships, promote South-South cooperation and align conservation efforts with global biodiversity and climate goals.
A major outcome of the summit will be the adoption of the “Delhi Declaration,” which is expected to become the first global framework dedicated exclusively to big cat conservation. The declaration aims to boost transboundary cooperation, encourage landscape-based conservation approaches and define shared priorities among participating countries.
The summit will also include technical sessions involving officials and experts from 95 big cat range countries. In addition, a special exhibition featuring tribal art, wildlife photography, films and virtual reality experiences related to conservation will be organised during the event.
The newly launched summit website will function as a digital platform for information sharing, outreach and stakeholder engagement.
Calling for wider participation in the alliance, Yadav urged countries that are yet to join the IBCA to become members, stressing that collective global action is essential for securing the future of big cats and maintaining ecological balance.
