India to Host Global Big Cat Summit 2026 with Participation from 14 Nations

India is set to host the International Big Cat Alliance Summit 2026 in New Delhi on June 1 and 2, bringing together countries working towards the protection of endangered big cat species and their natural habitats. Officials said 14 nations have already confirmed their participation in the global event.

The summit is expected to become an important platform for discussions on wildlife conservation, biodiversity management and climate linked ecosystem protection. India has invited 95 big cat range countries from Asia, Africa and the Americas to take part in the gathering under the framework of the International Big Cat Alliance.

The alliance was launched by India to encourage global cooperation for the survival of seven major big cat species including the tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, cheetah, jaguar and puma. The initiative focuses not only on wildlife protection but also on preserving forests, water systems and fragile ecosystems connected to these species.

Sources in the Environment Ministry said Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in joining the alliance and is likely to become its 26th member nation. Officials believe the move will further strengthen international cooperation on conservation and sustainable environmental management.

At present, the alliance includes countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Kenya, Malaysia and Sri Lanka among several others. Countries including Kazakhstan, Thailand and Vietnam currently hold observer status in the alliance.

Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav had earlier highlighted the importance of global collaboration for wildlife conservation during a high level ministerial meeting at the climate conference in Brazil last year. He said protecting big cats is directly linked to climate action and biodiversity conservation.

According to Yadav, big cats play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance. Healthy big cat populations help forests regenerate naturally, improve water systems and strengthen carbon storage in natural landscapes. He warned that declining wildlife populations could weaken ecosystems and reduce resilience against climate change.

The minister also stressed that conservation efforts should become part of long term climate strategies across countries. He described wildlife protection as one of the most natural forms of climate action and said safeguarding big cat habitats also supports disaster management, water security and sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

The International Big Cat Alliance plans to support member nations through technical guidance, research collaboration, training programmes and conservation financing mechanisms. Experts believe the upcoming summit in India will help countries exchange scientific knowledge and develop stronger partnerships for protecting endangered species in the years ahead.