Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s commitment to wildlife conservation on World Wildlife Day, March 3, 2026, praising the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) and successful cheetah reintroduction. He emphasized sharing best practices globally through the alliance launched in 2023. Recent arrivals of cheetahs from Botswana mark progress in restoring extinct species.
IBCA Initiatives
The IBCA, headquartered in India, unites 96 countries for conserving tigers, lions, leopards, snow leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, and pumas. India will host the first Global Big Cat Summit in 2026, announced in the Union Budget. Modi noted its role in curbing poaching and illegal trade via international cooperation.
Cheetah Reintroduction Milestone
On February 28, 2026, eight cheetahs from Botswana were released into Kuno National Park, Madhya Pradesh, under Project Cheetah, following President Murmu’s visit. Despite early losses, the program advances with India-born cubs, demonstrating expertise in managing translocated species.
Broader Conservation Efforts
Modi cited protections for Great Indian Bustard, gharial, and sloth bear alongside big cat work. These reflect sustainable models replicable worldwide, positioning India as a conservation leader. The initiatives align with UN’s World Wildlife Day focus on listening to local voices for nature.
