On the occasion of International Clouded Leopard Day, the Government of India reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the clouded leopard by implementing a comprehensive Clouded Leopard Conservation Action Plan (CAP), aimed at securing the species’ long-term survival across Northeast India.
The Action Plan, prepared under the Government of India–GEF–UNDP initiative, was released during the 91st meeting of the Standing Committee of the National Board for Wild Life (SCNBWL), held in Coimbatore in the second week of July 2026.
The plan outlines a long-term strategy focused on habitat protection, restoration of forest connectivity, scientific monitoring, community participation, and technology-based conservation measures.
As part of the initiative, authorities have identified 14 priority conservation landscapes across Northeast India for habitat restoration and corridor conservation to improve connectivity between forest ecosystems. The government has also included the clouded leopard under the Species Recovery Programme of the Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) scheme, strengthening institutional support for the species’ conservation.
The Action Plan calls for standardised scientific monitoring using camera traps, occupancy surveys, genetic studies, and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to improve understanding of the species’ distribution and ecological requirements. It also places emphasis on strengthening anti-poaching efforts and wildlife crime prevention while enhancing the capacity of frontline forest personnel through training and the use of the M-STrIPES smart application.
Recognising the role of local communities in wildlife conservation, the CAP promotes community-based conservation initiatives and sustainable livelihood opportunities. It also encourages transboundary cooperation with neighbouring countries to support coordinated conservation of the clouded leopard across its range.
In addition, the Action Plan incorporates climate resilience and adaptive management strategies to improve the long-term sustainability of clouded leopard habitats.
According to the government, the conservation of the clouded leopard is closely linked to the protection of Northeast India’s forests and biodiversity. The Action Plan seeks to bring together habitat conservation, scientific research, landscape restoration, technological innovation, community engagement, and international cooperation to ensure the long-term survival of one of Asia’s most elusive wild cat species.
