India Launches Clouded Leopard Conservation Action Plan

Key facts

• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has launched the Clouded Leopard Conservation Action Plan to protect the species and its habitats.
• The clouded leopard is a medium-sized wild cat named after the large, cloud-shaped markings on its coat and is known for its exceptional climbing ability.
• The species inhabits dense tropical forests across Northeast India and parts of Southeast Asia and spends much of its time in trees.
• The plan identifies 14 priority conservation landscapes across Northeast India and proposes restoring forest corridors to improve habitat connectivity.
• It strengthens anti-poaching measures, expands wildlife crime prevention, and introduces standardised monitoring using camera traps, genetic studies, and environmental DNA (eDNA).
• Northeast India is described as one of the clouded leopard's most important remaining strongholds and a rich biodiversity hotspot.
• The plan promotes community-based conservation, sustainable livelihood programmes, local community involvement, and cooperation with neighbouring countries.
• As an apex forest predator, the clouded leopard's survival reflects the health of entire ecosystems, and conserving its habitat protects water sources, biodiversity, and ecologically sensitive forests.