Nepal Joins Global Initiative to Safeguard Big Cats: What This Means for Conservation

Nepal has officially joined the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), a significant global initiative aimed at protecting seven species of big cats, including tigers and leopards. This move is expected to bolster international collaboration in conservation efforts. With a remarkable increase in its tiger population, Nepal's participation in the IBCA marks a crucial step towards ecological security. Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the IBCA aims to unite countries in their efforts to safeguard these majestic animals. Learn more about the implications of Nepal's membership and the future of big cat conservation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 24, 2025, 11:27 IST

Nepal's Commitment to Big Cat Conservation

Kathmandu: Nepal has officially become a member of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), a global initiative spearheaded by India aimed at the conservation of seven big cat species.

The IBCA is a collaborative effort involving over 90 countries, both those that are home to big cats and those interested in their conservation.

On Saturday, the IBCA announced that Nepal has signed the Framework Agreement to join the alliance.

The inclusion of Nepal, which is home to snow leopards, tigers, and common leopards, is expected to enhance international cooperation in big cat conservation efforts.

The IBCA expressed its congratulations to the Nepalese government for this important move towards ecological security.

Nepal has made remarkable progress in its tiger population, increasing from just 121 in 2009 to 355 in the latest census conducted in 2022.

The International Big Cat Alliance was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 9, 2023, in Mysuru, Karnataka, to promote the conservation of seven big cat species: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma.

India's extensive experience in tiger conservation and successful models for other big cats like lions and leopards will serve as a valuable resource for the alliance.

This platform will enable Big Cat Range Countries to exchange knowledge and mobilize resources to address the challenges of big cat conservation.