Sri Lanka has been formally welcomed as the newest member of the India-led International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), according to a message shared by the alliance on X.
“The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) warmly welcomes Sri Lanka as its newest Member Country,” the statement said, describing the move as “another collective step towards strengthening global cooperation for big cat conservation and a sustainable planet.”
Sri Lanka’s decision to join the alliance was initially announced in April, as part of a list of bilateral outcomes following Indian Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan’s official visit to the island. The development was included among several agreements and initiatives released on April 19 after discussions between Sri Lanka and India.
The IBCA, spearheaded by India, focuses on the conservation and protection of seven major big cat species worldwide — tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma.
Sri Lanka’s membership is expected to enhance collaboration with India on wildlife conservation, biodiversity protection and broader environmental efforts.
The announcement also coincided with several India-supported initiatives in Sri Lanka, including projects related to housing, healthcare, railway rehabilitation, scholarships and other development assistance programs.