Russia has officially become the 19th member of the India-based International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), strengthening global efforts to conserve big cat species. The alliance aims to protect the seven largest big cats, including the tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and puma, through cooperation, research, and habitat preservation. Since the IBCA's headquarters are in India, the programme promotes the exchange of expertise, financial aid, and collaborative activities among member countries. Russia's inclusion in international wildlife conservation marks a significant contribution to global efforts, demonstrating a united endeavour to ensure these endangered species are well cared for and that biodiversity is preserved for future generations.
Inside the International Big Cat Alliance: Key Roles and Initiatives
The International Big Cat Alliance is an association of people striving to save seven big-cat species in the world through a global effort and conservation strategies.
• It assists the member countries in scientific research, surveillance technologies, and rehabilitation plans.
• The alliance enhances anti-poaching campaigns and improves law enforcement of wildlife.
• It promotes sharing of knowledge, support of funds and community involvement to minimise human-wildlife conflict.
IBCA has the following objectives: to establish a cohesive international network that is dedicated to the long-term survival and recovery of big-cat populations.
Previous Year Question (PYQs) Based on Big Cat
| Exam Name | Year | Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UPSC Prelims | 2020 | In India, the Lion is found only in which region? | A) Western Ghats B) Gir Forest C) Sundarbans D) Aravalli Hills |
B) Gir Forest |
| SSC CGL | 2022 | The Snow Leopard is mainly found in which part of India? | A) Eastern Ghats B) Western Himalayas C) Western Ghats D) Nilgiris |
B) Western Himalayas |
| RRB NTPC | 2021 | Project Tiger was launched in which year? | A) 1973 B) 1985 C) 1992 D) 1965 |
A) 1973 |
| SSC CHSL | 2021 | Cheetahs were reintroduced in India in which national park? | A) Kanha B) Kuno C) Kaziranga D) Ranthambore |
B) Kuno |
| SSC GD | 2020 | Which big cat is known as the “Ghost of the Mountains”? | A) Tiger B) Snow Leopard C) Cheetah D) Jaguar |
B) Snow Leopard |
| UPSC Prelims | 2018 | The clouded leopard belongs to which habitat zone in India? | A) Trans-Himalaya B) Eastern Himalaya C) Western Ghats D) Thar Desert |
B) Eastern Himalaya |
| RRB Group D | 2019 | India is home to the largest population of which big cat? | A) Lion B) Tiger C) Cheetah D) Snow Leopard |
B) Tiger |
| SSC MTS | 2020 | The National Animal of India is? | A) Lion B) Tiger C) Elephant D) Leopard |
B) Tiger |
| UPPSC | 2021 | Which big cat is native to Africa but has recently been reintroduced in India? | A) Jaguar B) Cheetah C) Puma D) Lynx |
B) Cheetah |
| SSC CPO | 2022 | Which country has the largest population of wild lions? | A) India B) USA C) Tanzania D) Russia |
C) Tanzania |
Expected Question About the International Big Cat Alliance
When was the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) launched?
A) 2019
B) 2020
C) 2021
D) 2022
Answer: C) 2021
Description: IBCA was launched in 2021 under India’s leadership to strengthen global cooperation in conserving big cats.
How many big-cat species does the IBCA focus on conserving?
A) 5
B) 6
C) 7
D) 8
Answer: C) 7
Description: IBCA focuses on tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, and pumas.
Which country joined IBCA as the 19th member in 2025?
A) USA
B) Russia
C) China
D) Brazil
Answer: B) Russia
Description: Russia became the 19th member, reflecting growing international commitment to big-cat conservation.
Which organisation provides technical and policy support to the IBCA?
A) UNEP
B) FAO
C) CITES
D) Wildlife Institute of India
Answer: D) Wildlife Institute of India
Description: India’s Wildlife Institute supports research, monitoring, and knowledge sharing among IBCA member countries.
Conclusion
The move by Russia to be part of the India-led International Big Cat Alliance will enhance the international community in protecting some of the most endangered big-cat species in the world. This collaboration increases collaboration, scientific studies, and protection of habitats on different continents. The inclusion of Russia in the alliance gives the alliance more momentum and supports the global effort to protect big cats and to retain biodiversity for future generations.
