Delhi Roars: India Hosts Historic Global Summit On Big Cat Conservation

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced that the summit will be a defining moment in global conservation diplomacy. The event will bring together policymakers, scientists, conservationists, and community leaders to align efforts for protecting big cats and their habitats.

Summit Theme And Objectives

The summit is guided by the theme “Save Big Cats, Save Humanity, Save Ecosystem.” It aims to highlight the ecological importance of apex predators and their role in biodiversity, climate mitigation, and community livelihoods. The Delhi Declaration will set shared priorities, promote transboundary cooperation, and encourage a landscape-based approach to conservation.

Participation And Activities

Over 400 stakeholders including heads of state, multilateral agencies, financial institutions, and corporate leaders will attend. Technical sessions will be held on June 1–2 at Hotel Taj Palace, New Delhi. A curated exhibition showcasing tribal art, films, and virtual reality installations will highlight India’s conservation practices.

India’s Role In Conservation

India, which launched the IBCA in 2023 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has a strong track record with initiatives like Project Tiger and lion and leopard conservation programmes. Hosting the summit underscores India’s leadership in global biodiversity protection.

Key Highlights

•⁠  ⁠India to host IBCA Summit from June 1–3, 2026 in New Delhi

•⁠  ⁠Representatives from 95 countries to attend, over 400 stakeholders involved

•⁠  ⁠Theme: “Save Big Cats, Save Humanity, Save Ecosystem”

•⁠  ⁠Landmark Delhi Declaration to be adopted for global big cat conservation

•⁠  ⁠Technical sessions and exhibitions to showcase conservation practices

Sources: NewsBytes, Mint, The Hindu, ia-meetings.com