India announced it will host the Global Big Cats Summit in New Delhi in 2026, as Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav urged world nations at COP30 (Belem, Brazil) to strengthen cooperation for protecting big cat species and their habitats as part of broader climate and biodiversity action.

BulletsIn:

* India to host Global Big Cats Summit in New Delhi in 2026

* Announcement made at IBCA Ministerial Segment during COP30 in Brazil

* Theme highlighted: “Protecting Big Cats, Protecting Climate and Biodiversity”

* Big cats described as apex predators & indicators of ecosystem health

* Healthy big cat populations = healthier forests, grasslands, water systems, carbon storage

* Declining predators weaken climate resilience & natural carbon sinks

* India calls big cat landscapes “nature-based climate solutions”

* India showcases gains: tiger numbers doubled early; Asiatic lion population rising

* Growth supported through protected areas, wildlife corridors, national databases

* IBCA now has 17 members; 30+ countries interested in joining

* Yadav urges global solidarity: “Collaborate, not compete