India to host IBCA Summit 2026; Big Cat conservation highlighted as key to climate action

New Delhi: At the 9th Indian Ocean Conference (IOC 2026) in Mauritius, Dr. Amit Mallick, Director (International Cooperation) at the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), emphasized the growing global importance of big cat conservation in tackling pressing environmental challenges.

Speaking during a panel discussion, Dr. Mallick outlined the vision behind establishing IBCA as an intergovernmental platform aimed at fostering international cooperation for the protection of big cats.

He underscored that conserving species such as tigers, lions, leopards, and snow leopards goes beyond biodiversity protection, playing a crucial role in addressing climate change and global warming.

“Big cat conservation is intrinsically linked to ecosystem stability. Protecting their habitats ensures carbon sequestration, water security, and overall ecological balance, which are essential for a sustainable and resilient future,” he noted.

Dr. Mallick also announced that India will host the IBCA Summit 2026 in June.

The summit is being envisioned as a major global platform that will bring together leaders, policymakers, conservationists, and stakeholders from across countries to strengthen collaborative efforts in big cat conservation.

The upcoming summit is expected to further solidify India’s leadership role in global wildlife conservation and reinforce international partnerships aimed at safeguarding critical ecosystems.