Seven Big Cats, One Global Mission: India to Host First IBCA Summit on June 1

India will host the first International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Summit 2026 in New Delhi on June 1 and June 2, 2026 positioning the country at the centre of global efforts to conserve the world's most iconic and ecologically critical species.The High-Level Summit Meeting on June 1, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi will be presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. There will be adoption of the first ever "The Delhi Declaration on Big Cat Conservation", informed Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav. Focusing on the conservation of seven Big Cat species-Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma-and their ecosystems, the Summit will be a major milestone in highlighting the central role of biodiversity conservation in climate

resilience and sustainable development."The Summit will be organised under the aegis of the Government of India and the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). Spearheaded by India, IBCA serves as a global coalition dedicated to safeguarding the seven Big Cat species through collaborative action," stayed a senior official.IBCA was formally introduced by PM Modi in April 2023 and subsequently established by the Government of India in March 2024 following Cabinet approval, becoming fully operational in February 2025.Supported by Government financial commitment of approximately USD 18 million over five years (2023-24 to 2027-28), the Summit will serve as a high-level platform for Heads of State, Ministers, representatives of government, senior policymakers, scientists, conservation practitioners, and international/national conservation organisations to engage in dialogue on conservation challenges and opportunities.It will bring together IBCA Member and Observer countries, along with senior government representatives, experts, and partner organisations representing 95 Range countries across Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Why Big Cats Matter

Big Cats are apex predators, play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance and ecosystem health. Their presence regulates prey populations, maintains ecological balance, and ensures the long-term integrity of landscapes.Big Cat habitats also:

• Act as major carbon sinks, contributing to climate mitigation safeguard key water sources and watersheds.
• Support sustainable livelihoods, particularly through eco-tourism.
• Despite their global importance, Big Cats face growing threats, including Habitat fragmentation and loss of landscape connectivity, increased human-wildlife interface, climate-induced impacts on ecosystems.
• Emerging and transboundary wildlife diseases.

The summit reflects the understanding that safeguarding apex species is essential for biodiversity security, climate resilience, and sustainable development.The High-Level Summit Meeting on June 1, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi will be:

• Presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
• Statements on status of Big Cat Conservation by Heads of State and Government, sharing national experiences and priorities.
• Adoption of the First ever "The Delhi Declaration on Big Cat Conservation"

It will bring together world leaders, Heads of State/Government from IBCA member and observer countries, and over 400 global stakeholders, including senior policymakers, conservation experts, representatives of multilateral agencies, financial institutions, corporate leaders, and community representatives, to advance collective action for Big Cat conservation.