Introduction to International Big Cat Alliance UPSC

Welcome to PreCrack! Recently, the Union Environment Ministry has approved the making of International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). Also, they have allocated 150Cr of Indian rupees for this alliance.

Why International Big Cat Alliance is in news?

The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is making headlines as the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved its establishment. This initiative, similar to the International Solar Alliance, aims to lead global efforts in conserving big cats. With a budgetary support of Rs. 150 crore over five years, the IBCA recognizes India’s pivotal role in tiger conservation and seeks to replicate successful conservation practices globally.

Details about International Big Cat Alliance

We have added all the details about International Big Cat Alliance below-

What is International Big Cat Alliance? – International Big Cat Alliance UPSC

The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a notable global initiative recently approved by the Union Cabinet under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Accordance of the International Solar Alliance, the IBCA aims to lead the international efforts in the conservation of big cats.

1. Global Conservation Leadership

Establish a leadership role in global big cat conservation, leveraging India’s expertise and success in preserving tigers and other big cats.

2. Multi-Country Collaboration

Unite 96 countries, including those with big cat habitats and others interested in conservation, to form a collaborative, multi-country coalition.

3. Financial Support and Leveraging
Secure and allocate a one-time budget of Rs. 150 crore for five years (2023-24 to 2027-28) and explore additional contributions from various institutions to augment the financial support.

4. Centralized Repository

Create a centralized repository of successful conservation practices and personnel, backed by financial support, to strengthen global conservation efforts and reverse the decline in big cat populations.

5. Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building

Facilitate knowledge sharing, capacity building, networking, and advocacy among member countries and organizations to enhance conservation efforts.

6. Education and Awareness

Promote education and awareness initiatives, utilizing big cats as mascots, to highlight the importance of sustainable development, livelihood security, and environmental resilience.

7. Policy Advocacy

Advocate for policy initiatives that align biodiversity conservation efforts with local needs and contribute towards the attainment of sustainable development goals (SDGs) within IBCA member countries.

8. Governance Framework

Establish a governance structure consisting of an Assembly of Members, Standing Committee, and a Secretariat headquartered in India, following a framework similar to the International Solar Alliance.

9. Climate Change Mitigation

Mitigate adverse effects of climate change by safeguarding big cats and their habitats, contributing to natural climate adaptation, water and food security, and the well-being of communities reliant on these ecosystems.

10. Long-Term Conservation Impact

Instill cooperation among countries for mutual benefit and significantly contribute to the long-term conservation agenda on a global scale.

Features

These are the Key Features of International Big Cat Alliance-

1. Collaborative Platform: The IBCA fosters collaboration among big cat range countries, allowing sharing of best practices, expertise, and resources.
2. Multi-pronged Approach: It employs a multifaceted approach encompassing knowledge sharing, capacity building, networking, advocacy, and financial resource mobilization.
3. Global Focus: The alliance extends beyond India, aiming for international cooperation and engagement in big cat conservation efforts.
4. Sustainable Funding: Initial funding is provided by the Indian government, with long-term sustainability envisioned through contributions from various stakeholders.
5. Knowledge Sharing & Education: Building public awareness and education on big cat conservation is a key component, alongside facilitating knowledge exchange within the alliance.
6. Holistic Conservation: The IBCA addresses different aspects of big cat conservation, including research, monitoring, conflict mitigation, and policy advocacy.

Functions

We have added the key functions of International Big Cat Alliance below-

1. Conservation Coordination: Coordinate and lead global efforts for the conservation of big cats, including tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, pumas, jaguars, and cheetahs.
2. Financial Management: Manage and allocate financial resources effectively to support conservation initiatives and ensure the well-being of big cat populations.
3. Knowledge Sharing: Facilitate the exchange of successful conservation practices and expertise among member countries, organizations, and scientific institutions.
4. Capacity Building: Enhance the capacity of member countries in big cat conservation through training programs, workshops, and collaborative initiatives.
5. Advocacy and Networking: Advocate for policies that align with biodiversity conservation and promote networking among member countries, organizations, and businesses interested in big cat conservation.
6. Research and Technical Support: Provide support for research initiatives and technical assistance to address challenges faced by big cat populations, contributing to their long-term survival.
7. Education and Awareness: Promote education and awareness campaigns to engage the public, local communities, and youth in the importance of big cat conservation and sustainable development.
8. Eco-Tourism and Livelihood Opportunities: Support communities living near big cat habitats in developing eco-tourism initiatives and sustainable livelihood opportunities, ensuring their involvement in and benefit from conservation efforts.
9. Climate Change Mitigation: Contribute to climate change mitigation by safeguarding big cats and their habitats, emphasizing their role in natural climate adaptation, water and food security.
10. Policy Integration with SDGs: Advocate for policy initiatives that align biodiversity conservation efforts with local needs and contribute to the attainment of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
11. Governance and Statute: Establish and manage governance structures such as the Assembly of Members, Standing Committee, and Secretariat, following a framework similar to the International Solar Alliance.
12. International Collaboration: Facilitate collaboration with international organizations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, and donor institutions to enhance the impact of conservation efforts.

It’s important to note that the IBCA’s membership is open to 97 ‘range’ countries, which encompass the natural habitat of the seven big cats the alliance focuses on: tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and puma. Additionally, other interested nations and international organizations are also welcome to join the alliance.

Framework

The framework of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) includes several key components:

1. Governance Structure
The alliance has established a governance structure comprising the Assembly of Members, Standing Committee, and a Secretariat. This structure is designed to oversee and manage the activities and decision-making processes of the alliance.

2. Statute or Agreement

The framework involves a drafted statute or agreement that outlines the rules, regulations, and principles governing the functioning of the IBCA. This document serves as a legal foundation, similar to the framework used by the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

3. International Steering Committee (ISC)
The statute is to be finalized by the International Steering Committee (ISC), which plays a crucial role in shaping and formalizing the agreement. The ISC consists of nominated national focal points from founding member countries.

4. Host Country Agreement

Similar to the ISA, there is a Host Country Agreement prepared on the lines of the ISA and the government of India. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions for hosting the alliance’s headquarters in India.

5. Director-General (DG) Appointment

The alliance appoints a Director-General (DG) to lead its Secretariat. Initially, an Interim Head of IBCA Secretariat is appointed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) until the alliance appoints its own DG during an Assembly meeting.

6. Assembly at Ministerial Level

The IBCA Assembly operates at the ministerial level and is chaired by the President of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (HMEFCC), Government of India. This high-level assembly ensures strategic decision-making and coordination among member countries.

7. Financial Support and Augmented Corpus

The framework involves securing initial financial support from the Government of India, with a one-time budgetary allocation of Rs. 150 crore for five years (2023-24 to 2027-28). Additionally, the alliance explores contributions from bilateral and multilateral agencies, institutions, and donor organizations to augment its financial resources.

Need of International Big Cat Alliance

The need for the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) stems from several crucial points:

1. Stopping the Declining Population of Big Cats

All seven big cat species are facing alarming declines due to various threats. The IBCA aims to unite efforts and reverse this downward trend.

2. Reducing Threats to the Big Cats Worldwide

Many threats, like poaching and habitat loss, transcend national borders. The IBCA fosters global collaboration amongst 96 countries to develop effective solutions across a wider scale.

3. Utilizing Diversified Expertise of Countries

Different countries and organizations possess unique knowledge and experience. The IBCA provides a platform for sharing this expertise, allowing members to learn from each other and develop comprehensive conservation strategies.

4. Resource Mobilization

Big cat conservation requires significant resources. The IBCA provides a platform for mobilizing resources from different stakeholders, ensuring adequate support for conservation efforts.

5. Addressing Human-Wildlife Conflicts

The IBCA acknowledges the challenges of human-wildlife conflict. It aims to find peaceful solutions through collaboration, promoting coexistence between humans and big cats.

6. Need to Stand Together

By uniting 96 countries, the IBCA creates a powerful collective voice for big cat conservation. This unified front can have a greater impact on global policy changes and resource allocation.

Species Covered under International Big Cat Alliance

We have enlisted all 7 Species of Big cats that are covered under this big cat alliance-

1^st Species Covered under International Big Cat Alliance: Tiger

• Scientific Name: Panthera tigris
• Specification: Largest of the big cats, known for distinctive orange coat with black stripes.
• Origin: Tigers are found across Asia, from Siberia to the Indian subcontinent.
• Conservation Status in India: Endangered
• Description: Tigers are magnificent big cats with striking orange fur and distinctive black stripes. Found in Asia, they’re sadly endangered in India. To protect them, we must focus on preserving their habitats and ensuring a safe future for these incredible creatures.

2^nd Species Covered under International Big Cat Alliance: Lion

• Scientific Name: Panthera leo
• Specification: Social big cats, characterized by a golden-yellow coat and a tufted tail.
• Origin: Lions historically inhabited parts of Africa, Europe, and Asia.
• Conservation Status in India: Endangered
• Description: Lions are regal big cats with golden-yellow fur, known for living in groups. Once widespread, they’re now endangered in India. Collaborative efforts are crucial to safeguard their habitats and support their coexistence with local communities.

3^rd Species Covered under International Big Cat Alliance: Leopard

• Scientific Name: Panthera pardus
• Specification: Agile and adaptable, known for their distinctive rosette patterns on the coat.
• Origin: Found in Africa and parts of Asia, including the Indian subcontinent.
• Conservation Status in India: Vulnerable
• Description: Leopards are agile climbers, featuring rosette patterns on their fur. Native to Asia and Africa, they face vulnerability in India, emphasizing the need for dedicated conservation strategies to harmonize their existence with human habitats.

4^th Species Covered under International Big Cat Alliance: Snow Leopard

• Scientific Name: Panthera uncia
• Specification: Thrives in mountainous terrains, recognized by its thick fur and greyish-white coat.
• Origin: Central and South Asia, including the Himalayas.
• Conservation Status in India: Vulnerable
• Description: Thriving in snowy mountain terrains, Snow Leopards exhibit a distinctive greyish-white coat. Inhabiting the Himalayas, these vulnerable big cats demand specific conservation efforts to protect their unique habitats and ensure their survival for future generations.

5^th Species Covered under International Big Cat Alliance: Puma

• Scientific Name: Puma concolor
• Specification: Also known as mountain lions or cougars, characterized by a slender body and tawny coat.
• Origin: Found in the Americas, from Canada to the southern Andes in South America.
• Conservation Status in India: Not Found (Not native to India)
• Description: Also known as cougars, Pumas have a slender physique and tawny fur. Native to the Americas, their absence in India prompts us to learn from their conservation practices and apply these lessons to protect local ecosystems and biodiversity.

6^th Species Covered under International Big Cat Alliance: Jaguar

• Scientific Name: Panthera onca
• Specification: Robust and powerful, recognized by its golden-yellow coat covered in black rosettes.
• Origin: Native to the Americas, primarily in rainforests of the Amazon Basin.
• Conservation Status in India: Not Found (Not native to India)
• Description: Jaguars are powerful big cats, boasting a golden-yellow coat adorned with black rosettes. Native to the Americas, particularly the Amazon, their non-presence in India underscores the importance of region-specific conservation initiatives tailored to diverse ecosystems.

7^th Species Covered under International Big Cat Alliance: Cheetah

• Scientific Name: Acinonyx jubatus
• Specification: Known for incredible speed and a slender, long-legged build with distinctive black tear stripes.
• Origin: Historically found in Africa and parts of the Middle East, now extinct in India.
• Conservation Status in India: Extinct in the Wild
• Description: Renowned for their unparalleled speed, Cheetahs feature a slender build and a spotted coat. While historically found in Africa and the Middle East, their extinction in India highlights the urgency of global conservation efforts to protect and reintroduce these extraordinary big cats.

Importance / Significance

The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) holds significant meaning in the fight for big cat conservation for several reasons:

1. Global Collaboration

The alliance fosters collaboration among 96 big cat range countries and other interested nations and organizations. This unifies efforts across the globe, allowing for the sharing of best practices, knowledge, and resources on a much larger scale than individual countries could achieve alone.

2. Multifaceted Approach

The IBCA goes beyond a single approach, employing a multifaceted strategy. This includes knowledge sharing, capacity building, networking, resource mobilization, advocacy, and education. This comprehensive approach addresses various aspects of big cat conservation, increasing its effectiveness.

3. Addressing Transnational Challenges

Many threats to big cats, such as poaching and habitat fragmentation, transcend national borders. The IBCA’s global platform allows countries to work together to develop and implement solutions that address these challenges on a wider scale.

4. Utilizing Diverse Expertise

Different countries and organizations possess unique knowledge and experience in big cat conservation. The IBCA facilitates the sharing of this diverse expertise, allowing members to learn from each other and develop comprehensive conservation strategies that address the specific needs of each species and region.

5. Mobilizing Resources

Big cat conservation is resource-intensive, requiring financial and technical support. The IBCA acts as a platform for resource mobilization, attracting contributions from various stakeholders like governments, NGOs, and the private sector. This ensures adequate resources for successful conservation projects, research initiatives, and capacity building programs.

6. Raising Public Awareness

The IBCA aims to raise public awareness about the importance of big cat conservation and educate communities about the threats these animals face. This can generate public support and engagement, crucial for long-term conservation success.

7. Unified Voice for Big Cats

By uniting numerous countries and organizations, the IBCA creates a powerful collective voice for big cat conservation. This unified front can have a greater impact on global policy changes and resource allocation, potentially leading to stronger legal frameworks and increased support for big cat conservation efforts.

8. Promoting Peaceful Coexistence

The IBCA acknowledges the challenges of human-wildlife conflict. It aims to find peaceful solutions through collaborative efforts, promoting coexistence between humans and big cats, ultimately benefiting both parties.

9. Long-Term Sustainability

While the Indian government provides initial support, the IBCA aims for long-term sustainability through contributions from various stakeholders. This ensures a continued effort in big cat conservation beyond initial funding.

Support from Indian Government

The Indian government has provided substantial support to the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, approved the establishment of IBCA with a one-time budgetary support of Rs. 150 crore for a period of five years from 2023-24 to 2027-28.

Challenges

The International Big Cat Alliance faces several challenges in its mission to conserve and protect big cats globally:

1. Habitat Loss: Rapid urbanization and habitat destruction pose a significant threat to big cats, affecting their natural habitats and food sources.
2. Human-Wildlife Conflict: Encroachment into big cat territories often leads to conflicts with local communities, posing a challenge to conservation efforts.
3. Poaching and Illegal Trade: Big cats are targeted for their body parts and skins, leading to illegal trade and threatening their populations.
4. Climate Change: Changing climates affect big cat habitats, impacting their prey availability and overall ecosystem dynamics.
5. Lack of Resources: Many countries lack the necessary resources and infrastructure to implement effective conservation measures.
6. Political and Socio-Economic Factors: Political instability and socio-economic challenges in certain regions can hinder coordinated conservation efforts.
7. Lack of Awareness: Insufficient public awareness about the importance of big cat conservation may hinder support for protective measures.
8. Coordination among Member Countries: Ensuring effective communication and collaboration among diverse member countries with varying priorities and resources can be challenging.
9. Ensuring Long-Term Funding: Securing sustained financial support beyond the initial period is crucial for the alliance’s continued success.
10. Adapting to Evolving Threats: As new threats emerge, the alliance must remain flexible and adaptive in its strategies to address emerging challenges effectively.

What is International Solar Alliance?

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) is an action-oriented, member-driven alliance focused on increasing the deployment of solar energy technologies. Its main goals are to:

• Bring energy access to underserved communities.
• Ensure energy security for member countries.
• Drive the energy transition towards renewable energy sources and combat climate change.

Key Points about ISA

• Founded: November 30th, 2015, by India and France.
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India.
• Membership: Open to all United Nations member states. Currently, 119 countries are signatories and 94 countries are full members.
• Focus: Sunshine countries, those lying entirely or partly between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.
• Objective: Develop and deploy cost-effective and transformative solar energy solutions to help member countries achieve low-carbon growth trajectories.

Strategies

1. The ISA strategy, Towards 1000, aims to mobilize 1000 billion USD of investments in solar energy solutions by 2030, while delivering energy access to 1 billion people and resulting in the installation of 1000 gigawatts (GW) of solar energy capacity.
2. The alliance also works on various initiatives to achieve its goals, such as facilitating technology transfer, capacity building, and project financing.

Significance

• The ISA serves as a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing among member countries, fostering innovation and accelerating the adoption of solar energy.
• It plays a crucial role in addressing energy poverty and promoting sustainable development, especially in developing countries with high solar potential.
• By advocating for solar energy as a viable and clean energy source, the ISA contributes to mitigating climate change and achieving global climate goals.

Key Facts about International Big Cat Alliance

FAQs – UPSC Questions about International Big Cat Alliance

Question-1: What is the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA)?

Answer. IBCA is a global coalition working to conserve big cat species through collaborative efforts among countries, organizations, and businesses.

Question-2: When was the IBCA officially launched?

Answer. The official launch date of IBCA is currently not provided. Please refer to the latest updates from official sources.

Question-3: Who approved the establishment of the IBCA?

Answer. The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved the establishment of IBCA.

Question-4: Where is the headquarters of the IBCA located?

Answer. The headquarters of IBCA is in India.

Question-5: How many countries are initially part of the alliance?

Answer. Till now, means 2^nd of March 2024, 16 countries have given their written consent to be part of IBCA.

Question-6: Is the IBCA open for more countries to join?

Answer. Yes, the alliance is open to other countries, conservation organizations, scientific groups, and businesses interested in supporting big cat conservation.

Question-7: What is the allocated budget for the IBCA and for how many years?

Answer. A one-time budgetary support of Rs.150 crore has been approved for a period of five years from 2023-24 to 2027-28.

Question-8: What is the main objective of the IBCA?

Answer. The primary objective is to strengthen global cooperation for the conservation of big cats, including tigers, lions, leopards, and others.

Question-9: What functions does the IBCA perform in the field of big cat conservation?

Answer. Functions include knowledge sharing, capacity building, advocacy, financial support, research, and technical assistance for big cat conservation.

Question-10: What are the key features of the International Big Cat Alliance?

Answer. Key features include a multi-country coalition, a central repository of successful practices, and financial support to arrest the decline in big cat populations.

Question-11: How does the IBCA benefit member countries and global conservation efforts?

Answer. It provides a collaborative platform for sharing conservation practices, access to funds, and strengthens international initiatives on conservation and protection.

Question-12: Why is the IBCA considered significant in the context of big cat conservation?

Answer. IBCA is significant for its potential to replicate successful conservation practices globally and address challenges faced by big cats.

Question-13: What is the governance structure of the IBCA?

Answer. The governance includes an Assembly of Members, Standing Committee, and a Secretariat headquartered in India.

Question-14: How is the IBCA funded, and what is the initial support from the Indian government?

Answer. The Indian government has provided an initial support of Rs. 150 crore. Further funding will be explored from various sources, including international institutions.

Question-15: What environmental impact does the IBCA aim to achieve?

Answer. IBCA aims to contribute to natural climate adaptation, water and food security, and the well-being of communities reliant on big cat ecosystems.