Sasan Gir hosted the first pre-event of IBCA Summit 2026, where Gujarat showcased its successful Asiatic lion conservation model and future wildlife initiatives under Project Lion.
IBCA Summit 2026
IBCA Summit 2026: Bhupendra Patel virtually inaugurated the first pre-event of the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) Summit-2026 from Gandhinagar. The event was organized at Sasan Gir on the theme of “Lion Conservation” and was attended by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, Gujarat Forest Minister Arjun Modhwadia and other dignitaries.
Main IBCA Summit to be Held in New Delhi
Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the first IBCA Summit will be held in New Delhi on June 1-2, 2026. Ahead of the summit, theme-based pre-events will be organized across various cities in India, including lion conservation in Sasan Gir, cheetah conservation in Bhopal, leopard conservation in Bhubaneswar, snow leopard conservation in Gangtok and tiger conservation in Chandrapur.
Gujarat’s Unique Model for Asiatic Lion Conservation
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel stated that Gujarat has developed a globally recognized model for the conservation and protection of Asiatic lions. He highlighted that the lion population has increased from 284 in 1991 to 891 today, while their habitat has expanded from 3 districts to 11 districts across the state.
Barda Wildlife Sanctuary Emerging as New Habitat
He further noted that Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is emerging as a new habitat for Asiatic lions, where around 24 lions are currently residing.
Modern Facilities Under Project Lion
Under the vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi,” the Government of India has launched “Project Lion.” The initiative includes the development of breeding centres, isolation centres, advanced veterinary treatment facilities, radio collar tracking systems and drone surveillance for better wildlife management and conservation.
IBCA Summit to Strengthen Global Wildlife Cooperation
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav said that the IBCA Summit will bring together representatives, scientists and wildlife experts from 55 countries on a single platform to strengthen global cooperation for wildlife conservation. He also announced that the “Delhi Declaration” will be released during the summit.
Gujarat Exploring Habitat for Tigers and Cheetahs
Forest Minister Arjun Modhwadia stated that along with lions and leopards, efforts are also being made to create permanent habitats for tigers in Gujarat. Preparations are also underway to introduce cheetahs in the state in the future.
Brochure Released During the Event
A special brochure based on wildlife conservation efforts in Sasan Gir was also unveiled during the event. Several forest department officials, conservation experts and wildlife enthusiasts attended the programme.
India Showcasing Global Leadership in Wildlife Conservation
The IBCA Summit-2026 is expected to emerge as a major global platform showcasing India’s leadership in the field of wildlife, environment and biodiversity conservation.