The International Big Cat Alliance Pre-Summit was held in Bhopal today. It was organised on the occasion of International Biodiversity Day at IIFM. Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav and Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav inaugurated the event. Both leaders flagged off 20 bikes and a rescue truck of the Forest Department.

 

Addressing the event, Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav said that biodiversity is essential for human life and nature’s balance. He said that more than half of India’s GDP is directly or indirectly linked to biodiversity. He warned that if biodiversity weakens, food security will also be at risk. He said that at least 30 percent of the earth should be protected as permanent reserve areas. He informed that Indore has been declared a Wetland City. He added that India will soon achieve the target of 100 Ramsar Sites. So far, 94 sites have been declared.

 

The Union Minister said that Project Cheetah has shown positive signs of promoting biodiversity. He said that tigers protect not just their territory but also rivers and natural resources. He praised Chief Minister Mohan Yadav for the disposal of Union Carbide waste related to the Bhopal Gas Tragedy.

 

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav made a big announcement at the event. He said that wildlife rescue centres will be set up near all tiger reserves in the state. He said that injured animals had to be brought to Bhopal for treatment earlier. This caused them unnecessary suffering. Now, with local rescue centres, animals will be treated near their natural habitat.

 

The Chief Minister said that Project Cheetah was questioned in the beginning. But today it has become a new identity for Madhya Pradesh. He also spoke about water conservation efforts in the state.

 

The event saw the release of several important publications. These included the ‘India’s Biodiversity Report 2026’ and various other digital initiatives.