Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI)

31.10.2025

1. Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI)

Context

In 2025, Central Asian countries, including India adopted a six-year transboundary conservation plan (2025–2031) under the Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI). The framework aims to safeguard 17 migratory mammal species across the region’s vast deserts, steppes, and mountain systems. The initiative reflects a strengthened regional commitment to conserve biodiversity, migratory routes, and shared ecosystems that transcend national borders.

About the Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI)

• Origin and Framework:
   Established under the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), CAMI was launched in 2014 at COP11 (Quito, Ecuador) and later revised at COP13 (Gandhinagar, 2020) to align with emerging ecological and geopolitical priorities.
• Objective:
   CAMI’s core goal is to maintain migratory connectivity by addressing threats such as habitat fragmentation, poaching, and climate change, while promoting cross-border cooperation among range states.

Key Features of CAMI

• Species Coverage:
   The initiative protects 17 flagship migratory mammals, including the Snow Leopard, Saiga Antelope, Bukhara Deer, Persian Leopard, Wild Camel, Argali Sheep, and Urial including  all vital to Central Asia’s ecological stability.
• Ecosystem-Based Management:
   CAMI emphasizes landscape-level conservation, safeguarding migration corridors, breeding grounds, and water sources across national boundaries.
• Regional Coordination:
   It unites governments, NGOs, scientists, and local communities to harmonize research, share ecological data, and eliminate physical and policy barriers to migration.
• Inclusive Approach:
   Through the participation of herders, local civil society, and international bodies like IUCN, CAMI promotes both scientific integrity and community ownership of conservation outcomes.

Significance of CAMI

• Biodiversity Hotspot Protection:
   Covering some of the world’s largest intact grasslands and mountain ranges  often called the “Serengeti of the North”  the CAMI landscape sustains long-distance migrations essential for ecological balance.
• Climate and Connectivity Resilience:
   By ensuring open migration corridors, CAMI enhances species’ ability to adapt to climate change and access seasonal habitats.
• Model for Regional Cooperation:
   The initiative demonstrates how transboundary conservation can strengthen political trust, ecological stability, and shared responsibility among neighbouring nations.
• Community Integration:
   CAMI integrates local livelihoods and traditional knowledge, reinforcing that protecting wildlife and supporting rural economies are mutually compatible goals.

CAMI Work Programme (2025–2031)

The six-year Work Programme (2025–2031) outlines strategic actions for coordinated conservation across the region:

• Transboundary Cooperation: Strengthening cross-border partnerships for habitat management and wildlife monitoring.
   
• Poaching and Habitat Protection: Combating illegal trade and restoring degraded migration routes.
   
• Research and Data Integration: Expanding monitoring through satellite tracking, genetics, and field surveys for evidence-based planning.
   
• Community Engagement: Conducting education and awareness campaigns promoting conservation-linked livelihoods.
   
• Ecosystem Restoration: Rehabilitating grasslands, wetlands, and mountain corridors vital for seasonal movements.
   

India’s Role and Commitment

• Range State Participation:
   India, home to species such as the Snow Leopard and Argali Sheep, plays a central role under CAMI through its trans-Himalayan regions of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh.
• Policy Alignment:
   India’s involvement complements national initiatives like Project Snow Leopard and the National Biodiversity Action Plan, reinforcing a science-based, landscape-oriented approach.
• Regional Diplomacy and Research:
   Through CAMI, India strengthens environmental diplomacy with Central Asian countries under platforms such as the India–Central Asia Dialogue and SCO, while Indian research institutions contribute to habitat mapping, data exchange, and conservation technology.

Challenges in Implementation

• Geopolitical Complexities: Border sensitivities and regional instability hinder smooth coordination.
   
• Climate Change: Rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns threaten fragile ecosystems.
   
• Poaching and Illegal Trade: Weak enforcement and demand for wildlife products persist.
   
• Funding and Capacity Gaps: Some range states face resource shortages and limited technical expertise.
   

Way Forward

1. Strengthened Governance:
 Develop formal coordination frameworks for joint patrols, data sharing, and enforcement among range countries.

2. Technology Adoption:
 Use satellite telemetry, drones, and genetic databases for real-time tracking and anti-poaching action.

3. Community-Based Conservation:
 Promote eco-tourism and conservation-linked livelihoods to involve local populations directly in protection efforts.

4. Capacity Building:
 Enhance training and resource sharing among forest departments, rangers, and research institutions.

5. Integrated Development:
 Align CAMI objectives with national infrastructure, tourism, and climate adaptation policies to ensure ecological sustainability.

Conclusion

The Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI) stands as a pioneering model of regional environmental cooperation, linking nations through shared ecological goals and migratory corridors. By blending science, diplomacy, and community participation, CAMI is redefining conservation for transboundary species like the Snow Leopard and Saiga Antelope. Its 2025–2031 Work Programme reflects renewed regional solidarity, ensuring that the “Serengeti of the North” continues to sustain wildlife, cultures, and ecosystems for generations ahead.