The National Assembly will deliberate on the establishment of the Framework Agreement for the International Big Cat Alliance. The framework, introduced today, supports member countries through joint action and shared best practices. The agreement seeks to safeguard big cats and their habitats, which in turn enhances natural climate adaptation, water and food security, and the well-being of communities that depend on these ecosystems.
The International Big Cat Alliance Framework Agreement aims at securing the future of big cats, including the tiger, lion, leopard, snow leopard, puma, jaguar, and cheetah.
Minister for Energy and Natural Resources Gem Tshering introduced the agreement today.
The minister said, “We have big cats such as lions, tigers, and snow leopards, around seven species in total. By joining this alliance, we can receive substantial grants, and the government will not have to spend anything. The Indian government has allocated a centralised budget of USD 18 M. Therefore, the country stands to benefit from joining this initiative.”
The minister added that joining the alliance would also help address human–wildlife conflict by providing chain-link fencing, wildlife corridors, and research support.
The Human Rights and Foreign Relations Committee was assigned to review, scrutinise, and provide recommendations on the matter.
Besides, the National Assembly will amend the reservations placed on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Bhutan adopted the convention, placing four reservations during the previous government’s tenure.
The reservations include provisions on the right to nationality at birth and the right to change nationality.
The government also kept a reservation on Article 23, which grants persons with disabilities, including children, the right to fertility. The convention defines children as under 16, while Bhutanese law uses a different age classification.
Eleven countries have not ratified it.
Foreign Affairs and External Trade Minister DN Dhungyel said, “These countries have not accepted it, saying it does not align with the general objectives of the convention. The foreign ministry has received this information.”
The house unanimously agreed to deliberate on the matter.
Meanwhile, the Financial Services (Amendment) Bill of Bhutan, 2025, was also introduced today.
The bill proposes an amendment to allow insurance companies to offer both life and general insurance.
The existing act does not allow new insurance companies to provide these services, creating an unequal market environment.
Kinzang Lhadon/ Deki Lhazom
