India Launches Action Plan to Protect Clouded Leopard

India Launches Action Plan to Protect Clouded Leopard

CNB WORLD TIMES

New Delhi: On the occasion of International Clouded Leopard Day, India has strengthened its efforts to protect one of Asia's rarest wild cats by launching the Clouded Leopard Conservation Action Plan (CAP).

The Action Plan was prepared under the Government of India–GEF–UNDP initiative and released during the 91st Standing Committee meeting of the National Board for Wild Life (SCNBWL) held in Coimbatore in July 2026.

The plan provides a long-term roadmap for conserving the Clouded Leopard across Northeast India. It focuses on habitat protection, restoring forest connectivity, scientific monitoring, community participation, and the use of modern technology for wildlife conservation.

A major feature of the plan is the identification of 14 priority conservation landscapes across Northeast India. It also aims to restore wildlife corridors to improve connectivity between forest habitats. The Clouded Leopard has also been included under the Species Recovery Programme of the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) scheme.

The Action Plan introduces scientific monitoring through camera traps, occupancy surveys, genetic studies, and environmental DNA (eDNA). It also strengthens anti-poaching measures, wildlife crime prevention, and the capacity of frontline forest staff through the use of the M-STrIPES smart application.

The plan highlights the important role of local communities by promoting community-based conservation and sustainable livelihood opportunities. It also encourages cooperation with neighbouring countries for the conservation of the species across its natural range. Climate resilience and adaptive management have also been included to ensure the long-term protection of Clouded Leopard habitats.

Through this Conservation Action Plan, India aims to secure the future of the Clouded Leopard while protecting the rich forests and biodiversity of Northeast India.