Why in News?

Nepal has officially joined IBCA. 

• Purpose: A global coalition of 96 countries dedicated to conserving 7 big cat species and their habitats. 
• Founded: Proposed by India’s PM in 2019, launched in April 2023 (Mysuru, Karnataka). 
• Focus Species: Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, Puma.  
  • Puma and Jaguar are not found in India. 
• Objective: Curb illegal wildlife trade, conserve habitats, mobilize resources, and mitigate climate change impacts. 
• Governance: Similar to the International Solar Alliance (ISA), with a decision-making Assembly, Standing Committee, and Secretariat in India (New Delhi).