Key Developments:
- IBCA officially comes into force on January 23, 2025 as a treaty-based inter-governmental international organization.
- Ratification: Five countries — Nicaragua, Eswatini, India, Somalia, and Liberia — have ratified the Framework Agreement under Article VIII (1).
- Membership: 27 countries, including India, have consented to join IBCA.
Relevance : GS 3(Environment)
Objectives & Significance:
- Global conservation platform for collaboration among big cat range and non-range countries, conservation organizations, and international stakeholders.
- Aims to reverse the decline of seven major big cat species and restore their habitats.
- Ensures long-term survival of big cats and contributes to global ecological balance.
Big Cats Covered by IBCA:
- Tiger (Panthera tigris)
- Lion (Panthera leo)
- Jaguar (Panthera onca)
- Leopard (Panthera pardus)
- Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia)
- Puma (Puma concolor)
- Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus)
Scientific Classification & Roaring Ability:
- Panthera genus includes Tiger, Lion, Jaguar, Leopard, and Snow Leopard (capable of roaring).
- Puma and Cheetah are not part of Panthera but are often listed as big cats.
- Lion’s roar is the loudest (audible up to 8-10 km).
India’s Role in Big Cat Conservation:
- Historically home to Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Lion, Indian Leopard, Indian/Asiatic Cheetah, and Snow Leopard.
- Indian Cheetah declared extinct in 1952.
- Cheetah reintroduction project (2022): Government of India introduced African Cheetahs in Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh.
Conclusion:
- IBCA marks a significant global step in big cat conservation.
- India’s leadership in this initiative reinforces its commitment to wildlife protection and ecological balance.
