Russia Joins India-Led International Big Cat Alliance to Boost Global Conservation

Russia Joins International Big Cat Alliance, Strengthening India-Led Global Conservation Effort

Russia has formally adopted the framework agreement to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) , becoming the 19th member of the India-led global coalition dedicated to big cat conservation. The development was announced during President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, adding a major wildlife range nation to the initiative’s expanding network.

Purpose and Scope of the Alliance

The IBCA is headquartered in New Delhi and works to protect seven of the world’s major big cat species— tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma . With India home to five of these species, it plays a leading role in research, monitoring, and anti-poaching strategies. As many of these animals face threats ranging from habitat loss to illegal wildlife trade, the alliance provides a unified platform for collaboration among governments, scientists and conservation groups.

Membership Structure and India’s Contribution

The alliance ultimately seeks participation from 95 range countries that naturally host one or more big cat species. New members join by signing the framework agreement and issuing a diplomatic note. India has committed funding for IBCA’s first five years, supporting projects such as habitat restoration, technology-enabled tracking, knowledge exchange and community-based conservation programmes.

Origins and India’s Vision

The concept of a global conservation alliance emerged in 2019 and was formally declared in 2023 during the 50th anniversary celebrations of Project Tiger , one of the world’s most successful wildlife recovery programmes. The first IBCA assembly in 2024 elected India’s environment minister as president, reaffirming India’s leadership in wildlife diplomacy.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Russia is the 19th member of the International Big Cat Alliance.

• IBCA covers seven big cats : tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma.

• The alliance aims to bring in 95 big cat range countries .

• India hosts 75% of the world’s tigers , with over 3,600 tigers recorded.

Why the Initiative Matters Globally

Big cats are essential apex predators , maintaining ecological balance and contributing to healthy forests and grasslands. Their conservation aids climate resilience, prevents habitat degradation and supports biodiversity. India’s success under Project Tiger—marked by a doubling of its tiger population—provides a model for global action. With Russia joining the IBCA, the alliance gains a significant range country, potentially expanding the scope of snow leopard and Amur tiger conservation efforts.