IBCA Donates Rs. 3 Crore to Support Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve, Now India’s Largest.
Shimla:
In a major boost to wildlife conservation efforts in Himachal Pradesh, the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) has extended financial support of Rs. 3 crore to the state government for the development and management of the newly notified Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve. The cheque was formally handed over by IBCA team leader Soumitra Dasgupta to Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
Expressing appreciation for the generous gesture, Chief Minister Sukhu said the funding would be instrumental in initiating early-stage conservation activities. “The funds will facilitate the preparation of a comprehensive Management Plan, establishment of a Conservation Reserve Management Committee, and capacity building of local stakeholders,” he said.
The Chief Minister further emphasized the role of the reserve in promoting community-led conservation efforts and sustainable livelihoods for local residents through eco-tourism, nature photography, and wildlife research.
India’s Largest Conservation Reserve Notified
The Tsarap Chu Conservation Reserve, officially notified on May 7, 2025, during the closing ceremony of Wildlife Week, spans an area of 1,585 square kilometers—making it the largest Conservation Reserve in India. It is strategically located in the trans-Himalayan region, bordering the Union Territory of Ladakh to the north, Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary to the east, Kabjima Nallah to the south, and Chandertal Wildlife Sanctuary and Baralacha Pass to the west.
This ecologically sensitive zone is recognized as one of Himachal Pradesh’s high-density Snow Leopard habitats, and is also home to other rare Himalayan and trans-Himalayan wildlife such as the Tibetan Wolf, Kiang, Bharal, Ibex, Tibetan Argali, along with bird species like Rose Finches, Tibetan Ravens, and Yellow-billed Choughs.
Significantly, the Reserve encompasses the catchment of the Charap Nallah and serves as a vital wildlife corridor connecting Kibber and Chandertal Wildlife Sanctuaries—fostering greater ecological connectivity in the region.
Community-Based Conservation Emphasized
Highlighting the inclusive nature of the conservation model, CM Sukhu announced that the Conservation Reserve Management Committee will include representatives from local Panchayats, ensuring a participatory approach that aligns ecological priorities with the socio-economic aspirations of local communities.
The reserve is expected to emerge as a model for eco-tourism and sustainable development, drawing wildlife enthusiasts and researchers from across the country and beyond, while directly benefiting local populations through employment opportunities and eco-friendly enterprises.
IBCA’s Global Commitment
The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) is a global coalition comprising 96 countries, committed to the conservation of the world’s seven big cat species—including Tigers, Lions, Leopards, and Snow Leopards—and their natural habitats. The Alliance has shown particular interest in enhancing protected area networks in high-altitude landscapes, like those found in Himachal Pradesh.
Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary K.K. Pant and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife)-cum-Chief Wildlife Warden Amitabh Gautam, were present at the ceremony, marking a pivotal moment in Himachal’s conservation journey.
With this landmark collaboration, Himachal Pradesh takes a giant step toward safeguarding its unique trans-Himalayan biodiversity, setting a precedent for conservation-led development across India.
