Russia Joins India-Led International Big Cat Alliance

Russia has agreed to adopt the framework agreement to join the International Big Cat Alliance, becoming the 19th member of the India-led global initiative. The development coincided with President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to India, reinforcing cooperation on wildlife conservation and environmental protection.

What the International Big Cat Alliance Does

Headquartered in Delhi, the alliance focuses on safeguarding seven major big cat species: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma. India is home to five of these, making it a leading contributor to conservation expertise. Most of the species are vulnerable or endangered, prompting the need for coordinated global action.

Membership and Global Reach

The alliance aims to include 95 “range countries” where these big cats occur, from Asia and Africa to the Americas. Nations join by signing the framework agreement and issuing a diplomatic note. India has allocated funding for the initial five years to support joint programmes, capacity-building, knowledge sharing and technology-driven conservation efforts.

Origins of the Initiative and India’s Leadership Role

The idea was first proposed in 2019 as part of India’s broader commitment to counter poaching and wildlife trafficking. The alliance was formally announced in 2023 during the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger. Its first assembly in 2024 endorsed India’s environment minister as president, signalling strong regional backing.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Russia becomes the 19th member of the International Big Cat Alliance.
• IBCA covers seven big cats: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma.
• There are 95 range countries that host one or more of these species.
• India doubled its tiger population to over 3,600, representing 75% of the world’s tigers.

Why Big Cat Conservation Matters

Big cats play a crucial ecological role as apex predators, maintaining healthy prey populations and resilient habitats. Their protection supports climate mitigation, reduces risks of wildfires and disease, and preserves biodiversity. India’s Project Tiger showcases the potential for successful conservation through anti-poaching measures, habitat protection and community engagement, offering a model for the global alliance to build upon.