Context: International Big Cat Alliance
China is unlikely to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), a global conservation initiative led by India. Saudi Arabia has confirmed membership. India will host the first IBCA summit from June 1–3.
IBCA Basics
Launched: 2023 during 50 years of Project Tiger
Headquarters: New Delhi
Aim: Conservation of big cats, habitats and prey base through global cooperation, research, anti-poaching and capacity building
Members: 24 member countries + 3 observer countries
~95 countries expected in first summit
No mandatory financial commitments for members
Big Cats under IBCA + IUCN Status
Tiger — Endangered
Lion — Vulnerable
Leopard — Vulnerable
Snow Leopard — Vulnerable
Cheetah — Vulnerable
Jaguar — Near Threatened
Puma — Least Concern
Important Data
India had ~3,167 wild tigers (2022) — highest globally
China has only ~50–70 wild Amur (Siberian) tigers near Russian border
India’s tiger population is largely Bengal Tiger spread across Himalayan, Central Indian and Western Ghats landscapes
Importance for India
Enhances India’s wildlife diplomacy and global conservation leadership
Strengthens cooperation on habitat protection, research and anti-poaching efforts
