India will host the inaugural International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Summit from June 1β3, 2026 in New Delhi. Around 95 countries are expected to participate in the event.
- The International Big Cat Alliance Summit is likely to adopt the first-ever global declaration on big cat conservation, called the Delhi Declaration.
- The declaration aims to strengthen international cooperation, encourage landscape-based conservation, and improve protection of big cat habitats across borders.

What is the International Big Cat Alliance Summit?
The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a treaty-based intergovernmental organisation headquartered in New Delhi. It was established to promote global cooperation for the conservation of seven major big cat species.
Big Cat Species Covered Under IBCA
| Big Cat Species | Scientific/Regional Importance |
|---|---|
| Tiger | India hosts the worldβs largest tiger population |
| Lion | Asiatic lions found mainly in Gujarat |
| Leopard | Widely distributed across Asia and Africa |
| Snow Leopard | Found in Himalayan regions |
| Cheetah | Reintroduced in India under Project Cheetah |
| Jaguar | Native to the Americas |
| Puma | Also known as cougar or mountain lion |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)?
The IBCA is a treaty-based intergovernmental organisation headquartered in New Delhi that focuses on global conservation of seven major big cat species.
Which animals are covered under IBCA?
Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma are covered under the alliance.
What is the Delhi Declaration?
The Delhi Declaration is a proposed global declaration on big cat conservation expected to be adopted during the 2026 IBCA Summit.
Where is the IBCA headquartered?
The headquarters of the IBCA is located in New Delhi, India.
Why are big cats important for biodiversity conservation?
Big cats are apex predators and umbrella species. Their conservation helps protect forests, ecosystems, and other wildlife species.
Practice Questions
- Which of the following species is NOT covered under the International Big Cat Alliance?
a) Jaguar
b) Puma
c) Wolf
d) Snow Leopard - The headquarters of the International Big Cat Alliance is located in:
a) Nairobi
b) Geneva
c) New Delhi
d) Kathmandu - What is the proposed declaration expected from the inaugural IBCA Summit?
a) Rio Declaration
b) Delhi Declaration
c) Kyoto Declaration
d) Nairobi Protocol - Which ministry-related theme is most associated with the International Big Cat Alliance?
a) Renewable Energy
b) Wildlife Conservation
c) Maritime Security
d) Space Research
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