International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)

About International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA):

• It was launched by India on April 9, 2023, for the conservation of seven big cats, namely Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma harbouring our planet.
• Membership: It is open to 97 'range' countries, which contain the natural habitat of these big cats, as well as other interested nations, international organizations, etc.
• It will provide a platform for the member nations to share knowledge and expertise and extend support to recovery efforts in potential habitats.
• Its major activities will include advocacy, partnership, knowledge e-portal, capacity building, eco-tourism, partnerships between expert groups, and finance tapping.
• IBCA will also assist existing species-specific inter-governmental platforms to boost conservation efforts. 
• Funding: After the first five years, which will be supported by India's 'total grant assistance' of $100 million, the IBCA is expected to sustain itself through membership fees and contributions from bilateral and multilateral institutions and the private sector.
• Governance Structure:
  • A General Assembly consisting of all member countries.
  • A Council of at least seven but not more than 15 member countries elected by the General Assembly for a term of 5 years, and a Secretariat.
  • Upon the recommendation of the Council, the General Assembly will appoint the IBCA Secretary General for a specific term.