Shashvat Singh:
India’s climate action strategy is becoming increasingly holistic, and we are today integrating conservation, technology, and diplomacy. To speak on these and other issues, we have with us Dr SP Yadav, Director General of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). The IBCA is a global initiative to conserve seven major big cat species. Dr Yadav has been instrumental in shaping India’s Wildlife Conservation efforts and in advancing the global dialogue on biodiversity and climate resilience. To begin this discussion, let me ask you, Dr Yadav, about India’s conservation efforts and the role we are playing internationally.
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
I believe that India is assuming a leadership role in the negotiations on climate change and biodiversity conservation. If you examine the principles shared by Western countries and India, you will notice a significant difference. Western nations’ principles or ethos are mainly anthropocentric or human-centric. However, if you look at India, you’ll see that our culture has traditionally been nature-centric. We refer to Nature and Earth as ‘Mother’. Sustainability, as well as biodiversity and wildlife conservation, have been at the heart of our philosophy and principles in all these ongoing negotiations.
We embody the conservation principles. Our ancient systems and forefathers were very wise. They linked our lifestyles and religion with all conservation ethos and principles. We worship most animals; we have associated these animals with gods and goddesses, and this is how we respect our forests and wildlife. Therefore, biodiversity conservation has been at the core of all our negotiations. India’s leadership has always valued and respected biodiversity conservation.
Shashvat Singh:
Moving to our next question, the IBCA has gained global recognition as a symbol of ecological leadership. Could you clarify what motivated its establishment and how this initiative reflects our country’s vision of planetary responsibility and South-South cooperation?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
The IBCA is the vision of our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi. During the 2019 Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russia, it was first mentioned that there is a need to ally with countries to protect big cats and biodiversity. Finally, with the cabinet’s approval, the IBCA was established on 12 March 2024. The tiger is our national animal and a symbol of wildlife conservation in India and of India’s biodiversity. 58 tiger reserves cover more than 84,000 square kilometres of fully protected habitat. Therefore, all biodiversity is conserved within this area. The IBCA includes seven big cats — tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar, and puma — that are found across 95 countries.
Looking back at history, in 2010, for the first time, leaders, including the ones from Tiger Range countries, met in Saint Petersburg, Russia, for the Global Tiger Summit. Since tigers are highly endangered, this was the first summit organised specifically for a big cat. All countries and their leaders committed to doubling their tiger numbers by 2022. However, this did not happen; many countries like Lao PDR, Vietnam and Cambodia lost all their tigers. In fact, today, tiger numbers are increasing only in India, Bhutan, Nepal and Russia. In other countries, the numbers are either declining, static, or, as mentioned, some have lost all their tigers. Despite increased awareness, political commitment and resources allocated for tiger conservation, the situation remains unsatisfactory. Nonetheless, India has been successful and is a global leader in tiger conservation. We hold over 70% of the world’s tiger population. Therefore, India remains at the forefront of tiger conservation.
If we examine the leopard population, we have the most extensive leopard range in the world. We have approximately 15,000 leopards. The African Lion population, which we often see on TV channels, is declining rapidly. India is the sole habitat for the Asiatic Lion. Their population is showing a healthy growth rate over the years, and is now around 900. The snow leopard population, which inhabits mountainous regions and snow-capped peaks, remains relatively stable, and we have the third-largest population.
The cheetah is the only native mammal in our country that faces widespread threats. The last cheetah was shot in December 1947 in the Koriya district of Chhattisgarh. In 1952, we declared the cheetah extinct. Since then, the Indian Board of Wildlife decided to reintroduce it because it is the only mammal we have lost. It took over 70 years, but we have successfully reintroduced the cheetah to our country. Among the seven big cats, we hold a very prominent position in five.
Since all seven big cats are facing survival challenges, we need to protect their habitats and biodiversity in their name. That is why India, which has five of the seven big cats, plays a leadership role. In fact, we can support many countries in reviving their big cat populations or halting their decline. This is why India has taken the lead in helping other nations protect their biodiversity and habitats under the banner of big cats.
Shashvat Singh:
It’s so heartening to hear, Sir, that we have taken a commanding position when it comes to conservation of the big cats. Generally, when we see climate change and biodiversity loss, we treat them as parallel issues, but they are deeply interconnected. How is the IBCA seeking to address this nexus in its work through its partner organisations and partner nations?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
Yes, climate change and biodiversity loss are sides of the same coin. Climate change causes biodiversity loss and biodiversity loss contributes to climate change. So, it’s a serious issue. In fact, most countries face this challenge, and it is recognised worldwide. It’s not only island nations like the Maldives or small countries that are suffering; even developed and large countries are experiencing this problem. According to the report, biodiversity loss is severe due to the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources. We are losing species at an alarming rate, which is highly concerning. We are all aware of global warming. We are also witnessing the natural disturbances such as shifting rainfall patterns, rising temperatures and destructive cyclones, tsunamis, tornadoes, floods and landslides – all resulting from climate change. Both issues are deeply interconnected, and the solution is clear.
Like you conserve your forests and wildlife in the name of nature. You need to prevent carbon emissions from entering the atmosphere and harming wildlife. The best way to sequester carbon is through forestation. By protecting biodiversity, you help mitigate climate change because you are not only locking carbon in tree growth, but also preventing its release. This acts as a form of climate regulation, along with soil and moisture conservation. An interesting fact is that big cats contribute to or represent biodiversity conservation. Let us take the example of tigers in our country.
As I mentioned, there are 58 tiger reserves and over 84,000 square kilometres of habitats protected in the name of tigers. You might find it hard to believe that more than 600 freshwater streams and rivers either originate within tiger habitats or have their main catchment areas there. Therefore, for the water security of the country, protecting tigers is essential, as these habitats are safeguarded in their name. By doing so, we secure freshwater for drinking, which is a pressing issue now since India only possesses 4% of the world’s freshwater reserves. We are supporting around 17% of the human population and 18% of the cattle population. All these reserves serve as repositories of biodiversity because our laws are very strict like the Wildlife Protection Act. If you look at the big cat habitats, such as tiger reserves, there is a core zone, a surrounding buffer zone, and then a corridor. The core zone is kept completely inviolate as per the law, meaning no developmental activities or very minimal human interference. Through strict protection, biodiversity is preserved, and this is how big cat and biodiversity conservation contribute to mitigating climate change.
Shashvat Singh:
Big cats are apex predators and keystone species. Please explain how their conservation contributes to broader ecosystem resilience and, by extension, to climate stability.
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
So, we have seen the example of tigers; I just gave an example of freshwater and how we obtain it. Besides freshwater, there are numerous ecosystem services such as climate regulation, microclimate control, soil and moisture conservation, and prevention of landslides and soil erosion. In the name of conserving these big cats, we also strengthen the ecosystem services. Take the example of the snow leopard. The snow leopard is a key indicator of climate change because it requires a habitat with snow-covered or snow-capped mountains and hillocks. If a snow leopard is found there, it indicates that the mountainous ecosystem is in balance. However, if snow leopards disappear or their population declines, it signals that something is wrong, likely due to global warming or climate change. These snow leopards are often called the ‘ghosts of the mountains’, and by conserving their habitat in their name, we protect and preserve these regions. This, in turn, ensures the flow of freshwater to rivers like the Ganges, which derives its water from glacier meltwater. Therefore, they are very important.
Similarly, if you see Jaguars and Pumas, they are found in the Americas. Regarding Jaguars, you must have heard about the Amazon rainforest. All these forests are being protected and they provide immense ecosystem services. If biodiversity is preserved and conserved, then it can be sustainably utilised for the benefit of humankind. There are several wild cultivars from which our domesticated varieties of food are developed through selection and different plant breeding methods. These are repositories of enormous wealth and can be sustainably utilised by humans for their benefit. However, before that, you need to protect and conserve all this biodiversity and the habitat of big cats.
The situation is similar with other big cats like lions and cheetahs because they are all apex predators. When an apex predator such as a tiger is present, it indicates that the entire ecosystem below it is in balance and functioning well. A balanced ecosystem provides various ecosystem services. If a tiger is absent, it suggests that the ecosystem is out of balance. Apex predators regulate the population of herbivores, preventing their numbers from increasing excessively and damaging the ecosystem by overgrazing on grasses. By controlling herbivore populations, apex predators help regulate the overall ecosystem, including the number of tigers. For example, to sustain one tiger, about 500 to 550 spotted deer are needed, as this maintains the tiger’s survival. This indicates that if 550 spotted deer are available, one tiger can survive year-round on a sustainable basis. Supporting 500 to 550 spotted deer requires a large area, which in turn means that one tiger needs that much space to maintain the balance of the entire ecosystem.
Therefore, the role of an apex predator becomes very important in maintaining the ecosystem and biodiversity of that area. By preventing the unlimited increase in herbivore population, it also helps in regenerating the forest. This is a complex relationship, but very vital for our existence.
Shashvat Singh:
Sir, how can landscape-based conservation, such as maintaining wildlife corridors or habitats, support climate adaptation?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
India has already adopted landscape-based conservation. Many countries are also doing the same. Since it is not only about protected areas, such as tiger reserves, their surrounding environments also affect biodiversity conservation. Therefore, in landscape management, we consider and manage the entire area around these protected zones. This may include agricultural land, river systems, grasslands, and meadows. Holistic management is necessary, and for that, a landscape-level approach is essential because all external factors, such as development, and roads and railways, impact the habitats of wildlife or protected areas. Thus, landscape-level management is very important and the appropriate step to take.
Just as development is needed and most countries are developing economies, you need employment, development, and growth, specifically economic growth. But where will it come from? When considering landscape-level management, you implement mitigation measures that maintain checks and balances on these developmental activities, ensuring they do not adversely impact wildlife or conservation efforts. Therefore, landscape-level management becomes extremely important. We must consider the people living in the fringe areas. It is not feasible to treat wildlife in isolation and manage only wildlife. Many people, particularly the poor, depend on forest resources for daily essentials like fuel, wood, fodder and employment. They cannot be treated separately. Hence, landscape-level management is crucial because individual land use impacts and influences our wildlife conservation.
Now, any developmental activities in our country that take place require the adoption of mitigation measures if they pass through forest land or protected areas. For example, the national highways include wildlife underpasses and overpasses, which are expensive but essential, and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change does not grant permission for these development projects without them. India is setting an example and acting as a role model. The longest underpass is between Kanha and Pench tiger reserves. When it was proposed, there was a lot of opposition due to the high costs, but now everyone is pleased because traffic flows smoothly on this route and all animals, including tigers, deer and sambar, can use the designated areas freely.
Shashvat Singh:
In fact, I have seen several instances on social media of elephants crossing highways.
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
Elephants, like other animals, require corridors because habitat fragmentation is a major issue. To prevent developmental activities from adversely impacting these animals, safe passages are necessary. Therefore, for elephants as well, such mitigation measures are prescribed when wildlife clearance or forest clearance is accorded by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Shashvat Singh:
Sir, as a nation, we have played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between developed and developing countries in both climate and biodiversity negotiations. How is the IBCA advancing this leadership through international partnerships?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
In fact, the IBCA is a symbol of leadership from the Global South, promoting South-South cooperation. As I mentioned, it was founded by the Government of India (GoI) and our leadership role in the conservation of big cats has been well established based on our successful track record. The Alliance includes 95 Range Countries across the Americas, Africa and Asia. Most of these nations are either low-income or lower-middle-income countries; very few are developed nations. The crisis of biodiversity loss, climate change, and the declining populations of big cats and other wildlife are very apparent. Therefore, these countries need resources, technology, skills and capacity-building. This is where the IBCA plays a crucial role in supporting these countries. In today’s age, it becomes essential because there is no need to reinvent the wheel; instead, we can share best practices, knowledge and skills with other nations.
The IBCA draws its strength from India’s success, which has demonstrated leadership in the effective conservation of big cats and biodiversity. This serves as a role model for other countries to follow. Many nations have requested support in capacity enhancement, skilling and technology, such as Cambodia, which has lost all its tigers. It wants to learn from India about the tiger reintroduction. India has had success with its first tiger reintroduction experience in the world at Sariska Tiger Reserve, followed by Panna Tiger Reserve. The IBCA and the GoI are assisting the Government of Cambodia in this. Thus, the IBCA supports countries by helping them identify their gaps and knowledge deficiencies, and by assisting wherever needed.
Shashvat Singh:
Looking ahead, how do you see the concept of conservation diplomacy evolving, particularly in relation to climate cooperation and biodiversity frameworks like the Global Biodiversity Framework? How do you see this evolution unfolding?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
This big cat conservation is part of soft diplomacy or green diplomacy because there are various geopolitical issues where dialogue is difficult. However, on big cat conservation issues, it is crucial because they affect countries and their populations. Thus, this forms an extremely important aspect of green diplomacy, soft diplomacy or big cat diplomacy, which can be facilitated through the IBCA. In fact, big cat habitats are not confined to political boundaries. For example, the Sundarbans in West Bengal, extend across borders into Bangladesh. If tigers do poorly in Bangladesh, it will surely impact India as well. Similarly, from forests of Valmiki Nagar, Dudhwa and Katarniaghat, tigers, rhinos and elephants cross into Nepal. These are transnational issues and the power of big cat diplomacy as a form of soft or green diplomacy is vital because it unites countries in their efforts to conserve these species. Therefore, it is an invaluable tool for negotiations, cooperation, and collaboration.
Shashvat Singh:
Perhaps it can also contribute to global peace. Sir, you already provided a glimpse of how technology is vital for biodiversity conservation and how the IBCA has been assisting countries in this area. We now have several AI-based monitoring and satellite mapping systems. How is the IBCA utilising technology to improve conservation outcomes?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
Let us once again revisit history. Before 2002, the tiger population was estimated by analysing their footprints. When a tiger walked on the ground, it left its footprints, which were then made into plaster casts. Based on these casts, tigers were counted. However, this method has limitations because footprints vary depending on whether the tiger walks on soft soil, hard ground, sandy terrain or rocky surfaces. Consequently, this counting technique was unreliable, often leading to underestimation or overestimation.
In 2005, India lost all the tigers in Sariska Tiger Reserve, which led us to consider involving science. Consequently, a counting method was developed using technology, camera traps, and statistical models. The entire area is now divided into 2 square-kilometre grids, with a pair of cameras placed in each. Tiger stripes are like our fingerprints; they never match, similar to biometric details. Automated cameras take photos of a tiger when it walks within a grid, and these images are then analysed using software with artificial intelligence. This process establishes the unique identity of each tiger.
India has been leading in this field. India holds the Guinness World Record for deploying the most cameras for animal counting or estimation. We have used this science very effectively. Satellite monitoring is essential. When we introduced the cheetahs, they were fitted with radio collars equipped with satellite tracking so we could monitor their movements and understand their behaviour, social dynamics, and home ranges. Their acoustics were used to identify individual animals. There is electronic surveillance, with 24/7 monitoring via thermal and long-range infrared cameras.
Numerous technological advancements are employed in countries like India and other parts of the world. The IBCA organises capacity-building programmes in the Range Countries, providing practical guidance on these technologies. GIS mapping of habitats is crucial. India uses M-STrIPES software to monitor tiger stripes and ensure intensive protection of tigers and their ecosystems. It is an app-based tool where, after patrolling, guards must switch it on, recording their patrol paths and any illegal activities. When they return, this data is collected by a computer, sent to a server and analysed. This process is known as smart patrolling.
Moreover, there are numerous advances that these countries, particularly India, have made, and the IBCA is working to increase the capacity of other Range Countries, such as Russia. It is learning how to use camera traps and how to interpret these photographs to monitor their highly endangered Amur leopards. Different kinds of technologies are available in various regions around the world. There is no single source; otherwise, you would keep searching and reading journals and papers. Therefore, we have established a think tank of global experts, which considers the future, as well as anticipates the situation and the technology that will be required. This think tank includes international experts who are working to develop innovative solutions using technology.
Another thing the IBCA is doing is highlighting the status of technologies used in wildlife conservation worldwide. So, on a single platform, all the latest technologies employed globally for wildlife conservation will be available to countries, researchers, scientists and practitioners. We aim to update this information annually. We keep it up to date. In this way, we are helping and supporting countries because technological tools are essential in this age.
Shashvat Singh:
When the IBCA is building the capacity of people from member nations, do you also focus on developing the skills of local communities, youth, and on how to utilise indigenous knowledge systems in conservation efforts?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
Communities are an essential part of conservation. In fact, without community support, no conservation project or scheme can succeed. We discussed the landscape-level approach, where I mentioned that communities or people living in that landscape become an integral part of conservation. It is also very important to note that many poor people live in and around protected areas, or that poverty exists within protected areas. They have limited resources and employment opportunities, but lead a natural, self-sustaining lifestyle. Their needs are minimal. We need their support for conservation, and we require their traditional knowledge in wildlife conservation and in mitigating conflicts between wildlife and humans. From both perspectives, their support is crucial, and it is also important for governments and park managers to support them because their reliance on wildlife habitats for resources is significant.
Therefore, it is the duty of park managers and forest officers to ensure that their reliance on natural resources is minimised and that their needs are fulfilled through alternative sources. They require employment and the benefits of conservation must reach these communities substantially and directly, so that they become custodians of our wildlife, biodiversity and natural resources. Similarly, youth are extremely important. Times have changed significantly. There was no internet when we were young or when we were in school, but now there is an explosion of information through technology and social media. As a result, young people are much more aware now. They are highly sensitive to environmental issues, climate change and plastics. We must utilise, equip and positively expand their knowledge base so that they become supporters, advocates and leaders of biodiversity and wildlife conservation. Currently, we are enhancing the capacity and skills of officers, training them on how to involve youths and local communities through eco-development committees. However, they are all integral parts of development. We cannot isolate them and focus only on wildlife conservation, as that is not feasible in today’s world.
Shashvat Singh:
Moving to the most crucial question, which I would say is a major source of controversy and debate between developed and developing nations: finance. We all recognise it remains a significant challenge in conservation and climate action. What innovative financial models or partnerships is the IBCA exploring to ensure long-term sustainability?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
The Govt of India established the IBCA with an initial support of only Rs 150 crore. However, we have provisions to generate resources through CSR funding and voluntary contributions from member countries. There is no joining or membership fee for these countries because, out of 95, more than 90 are low- or middle-income nations that are often in need of resources. As I mentioned, all developing countries require development, economic growth and employment opportunities. Usually, wildlife conservation is given lower priority by leadership or governments. You rightly highlighted the significant resource gap these countries need to conserve big cats. Therefore, resource generation has become a crucial pillar of the IBCA, with discussions with the World Bank now in their final stages.
We are also entering into an MoU with the Asian Development Bank. Now, there is carbon financing. We have partnered with Iora Foundation, an NGO that specialises in converting carbon into money. So, if you see, all these big cat habitats are very rich in biodiversity, have good forest cover and are fully protected. Therefore, there is incremental growth in carbon sequestration. If we can convert this carbon into a tradable form or into money, it can provide a very good source of income for these countries. We are working on this methodology. We have signed an MoU with Iora Foundation, which will, at no cost to the countries, go there to study their carbon stock, evaluate the incremental growth, and, based on that, convert the carbon into a tradable instrument to generate resources. We are developing innovative financing models and engaging with various donors and financial institutions to support these countries, which genuinely need funding for conservation and biodiversity.
Shashvat Singh:
Thank you for shedding light on the types of financial models the IBCA is considering for long-term sustainability. Moving to the next question, how do you see India’s conservation policies contributing to our nationally determined contributions and the broader goal of nature-positive development that we champion?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
Yes, India is certainly making an impact at the international level. You may have heard about the Mission LiFE launched by the Prime Minister of India, which states that an environmentally friendly lifestyle helps in combating climate change. It assists in mitigating global warming. India has several acts, such as the Environment Protection Act, the Wildlife Protection Act, and the Forest Conservation Act, which serve as role models for various countries. As per the Forest Conservation Act, no forest land can be diverted for non-forestry purposes unless approved by the central government. Although it is a small act, it has a significant impact on conservation, as forest land cannot be used arbitrarily.
There are rules and regulations, along with compensatory mechanisms, to prevent damage. If any forest land is to be used for non-forestry purposes like development activities, it must be compensated for, including measures like afforestation. Similarly, India has one of the finest Wildlife Protection Act in the world. All endangered animals are listed in Schedule One, while the remaining are in Schedule Two. Very few animals, considered vermins, may be hunted. Most animals in India are protected by this Act, and penalties for hunting Schedule One animals such as tigers, leopards, and lions are severe, with a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 7 years imprisonment, along with property confiscation and fines.
Similarly, India has the Environment Protection Act. For any industry or developmental activities, environmental clearance is mandatory, which is issued after thorough scrutiny and screening by the government, along with certain conditions to help mitigate adverse impacts on the environment and forests. With this background and the support of institutions such as the National Biodiversity Authority, the National Tiger Conservation Authority, the Wildlife Institute of India, the Zoological Society of India, the Botanical Society of India, and the Forest Survey of India, there exists a solid framework. This serves as an example to other countries, and based on this support, India demonstrates its leadership role at the international level in biodiversity conservation and climate negotiations.
Shashvat Singh:
Would you agree that India’s approach to big cat conservation provides a model for incorporating ecological resilience into national climate policies?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
Yes, absolutely. In fact, let us take the example of India’s Project Tiger. It was launched in 1973, and before 1969, tiger hunting was allowed. It is said that at the turn of the century, there were more than 10,000 tigers, although these figures are all estimates. Prior to 1969, tiger hunting was permitted, but it was banned that year. The Wildlife Protection Act was enacted in 1973, and Project Tiger was launched in 1973. The project initially started with nine reserves covering around 18,000 square kilometres. Today, we see significant growth in tiger reserves. There are now 58 reserves, and their total area has expanded from 18,000 to over 84,000 square kilometres. Once an area, sanctuary or national park is declared a tiger reserve, it receives the highest level of legal protection. Currently, India has around 1000 national parks and sanctuaries designated as protected areas. In total, roughly 5% of the country’s land area is fully protected and conserved in the name of wildlife. When we say ‘fully protected and conserved’, it means the forests are kept intact, natural regeneration occurs, and biodiversity is preserved within these zones. These efforts are intricately interconnected, grounded in India’s principles of conservation, laws and ethos, and supported by the dedicated work of personnel from the state forest services and the Indian Forest Service who work tirelessly to maintain the nation’s ecological security. In this way, India is demonstrating leadership in conservation.
Shashvat Singh:
Now, we will consider the future. Over the next five years, what are the main priorities of the IBCA, and how do they align with global frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and the Global Biodiversity Framework?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
Currently, there are 95 Range Countries showing significant interest. However, for formal membership, they require proper approval from the government, such as cabinet approval, or in some cases, approval from the parliament. So far, 14 countries have already signed the framework agreement and officially became members of the IBCA, while three countries have opted for observer status. In many other countries, the process is underway and they are expected to join the IBCA platform very soon. Over the next five years, one of the key goals is to expand the organisation as much as possible, bringing the maximum number of countries onto the IBCA platform to foster collaboration. This expansion will include not only countries but also organisations working on conservation at a global level, as well as financial institutions, donors, NGOs and efforts focused on capacity building.
We organise capacity-building programmes on in situ basis. We previously organised a session at Kaziranga Tiger Reserve and National Park, where 44 members from 27 countries participated and benefited by observing and practising certain practices being deployed or followed there. Consequently, we plan to organise such capacity-building programmes annually and are exploring ways to expand this initiative so that the maximum number of people, including practitioners, policymakers and leaders, can be sensitized. Additionally, the GoI, in collaboration with the IBCA, has decided to organise an International Summit of Big Cat Range Countries in 2026. This summit aims to bring together forest ministers, policymakers, senior officers, practitioners, communities and youths from across the globe, and is likely to take place in the latter half of 2026.
The outcome of this summit will be the first-ever global big cat declaration, which has never happened before. Additionally, another key point we plan to pursue in the next five years is conducting SWOT analyses for all Range Countries. We need to identify their strengths, good points, bad points, and gaps in skills, capacity, technology or resources. Based on this scientific analysis, we aim to support these countries so they can succeed in big cat and biodiversity conservation. In short, this is our primary plan. Besides this, we are highly active on social media, publishing a bimonthly Big Cats magazine that showcases best practices worldwide and provides information and updates on what is happening in different regions for stakeholders.
Shashvat Singh:
Do you also believe that public-private partnerships (PPPs) can be an essential method to conserve big cats?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
In fact, there are different kinds of gaps, such as scale, capacity, technology and resources. PPPs can play a vital role that we need to explore. Depending on which companies and organisations can contribute and support, the impact can be significant. For example, in the reintroduction of cheetahs in India, the Indian Oil Corporation provided financial support, initially contributing around Rs 50 crore. This not only helps in creating awareness but also fosters a sense of ownership, as they take pride in their involvement. I believe PPPs in developing low and middle-income countries would be a highly worthwhile avenue to explore.
Shashvat Singh
Finally, Sir, what message would you like to send to policymakers, conservationists and youth about the importance of protecting biodiversity as a fundamental part of climate action?
Dr. S.P. Yadav:
If human beings want to live and sustain themselves, they need to protect biodiversity and wildlife for their survival. They do not do this solely for wildlife; by protecting and conserving wildlife, they ensure their own survival. This idea is deeply embedded in our cultural and social values. Because of this, the survival of each other is interconnected, and we must not forget the role of wildlife in the ecosystem. For example, consider honeybees. If honeybees disappear, pollination will be drastically reduced or cease altogether. This will negatively impact seed and fruit setting, among other things. Every creature on Earth, created by nature, has an important role, whether we understand it or not. It is a misconception that humans are the wisest and can control everything. Every creature has a role, and we should allow them to play it. Maintaining this balance is essential for our survival. I want to convey this message to the youth, future generations, and policymakers.
Brief Bios:
Dr. S.P. Yadav is the Director General of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA). Dr Yadav, an avid wildlife enthusiast, is well known for his contribution towards conservation of big cats especially Tiger and Cheetah in India. He served as an officer of the Indian Forest Service (1989 batch/ Uttar Pradesh Cadre) for the past 35 years and has successfully led the conservation agenda of Project Tiger, Cheetah, Lion and Elephant while working in the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India; National Tiger Conservation Authority; and Global Tiger Forum. He spearheaded the first ever wild to wild, intercontinental, translocation of Cheetah from Africa to India. He held several responsible senior positions in the Government like the Addl. Director General of Forests (Project Tiger & Elephant; Forest Conservation; Wildlife); Member Secretary of the National Tiger Conservation Authority; Director of Wildlife Institute of India; Member Secretary of Central Zoo Authority; and CITES Management Authority of India. Dr Yadav was conferred with the prestigious National Award for Wildlife Conservation by the Government of India and with the first Global Leadership Award in Conservation by the Global Tiger Initiative Council. Recently he has been conferred with the International Crystal Compass Award by the Russian Geographical Society for his contribution in tiger conservation in India and efforts to promote tiger conservation at global level. The award, often called as “geographical Oscar” was presented to him on 29 May, 2025 at Moscow. He has joined IBCA as Interim Head on 12 March 2024 and sworn in as Director General on 16 June, 2025.
Shashvat Singh is a Senior Research Fellow for Climate, Development, and Energy Cooperation at India Foundation. He brings about 15 years of experience in applied research, systems thinking, and policy integration across climate, energy, and development sectors. He has a deep grounding in India’s clean energy transition and the frameworks of the Sustainable Development Goals. He has contributed to national strategies and authored multiple reports and policy briefs on climate action. He is an alumnus of the Institute of Rural Management Anand, and the University of Pune. For his contribution to policymaking and thought leadership, he has been recognised as a ‘Rising Star’ by NITI Aayog – the Government of India’s premier policy think tank.
