GILGIT: The Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, in collaboration with the Snow Leopard Foundation (SLF) and the wildlife departments of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), has announced the winners of the Pakistan Wildlife Protection Awards 2025.

These awards are presented to individuals who have rendered outstanding services in wildlife conservation, particularly in snow leopard habitats. During the third meeting of the National Committee for the Citizen Ranger Wildlife Protection Programme, nominations were reviewed and seven individuals were selected across various categories.

One award was reserved for a community. This year’s highest honour, the “Snow Leopard Award,” will be presented to Muhammad Ismail, a game watcher from the Azad Kashmir Wildlife Department, for his exemplary dedication to wildlife protection.

From Gilgit-Baltistan, Game Inspector Sher Afghan Ali will receive the Blue Sheep Award, Muhammad Raza the Brown Bear Award and Game Watcher Sakhawat Ali the Wolf Award. From Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Deputy Ranger Israrullah has been chosen for the Ibex Award, while Wildlife Watcher Muhammad Saleem will receive the Markhor Award.

Game Watcher Mehboob Shah from Azad Kashmir will receive the Musk Deer Award.

The official awards ceremony will be held in Islamabad on July 31.

Minister of State for Climate Change Dr Shaza Mansab Kharal praised the awards, stating that they recognise the tireless efforts of unsung heroes who protect the nation’s natural resources.

She emphasised that wildlife conservation is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and combating climate change and highlighted the importance of continued support for these protectors.

Wildlife Ambassador Sardar Jamal Khan Leghari remarked that wildlife conservation is not just about saving animals, but also about safeguarding ecosystems and ensuring a better future for coming generations. He acknowledged the dedication of those working in mountains and forests under challenging conditions.

Dr Muhammad Ali Nawaz, Director of the Snow Leopard Foundation, said the awards not only celebrate individual efforts but also reflect collective achievements. He applauded the field rangers who protect rare species and ecosystems in tough environments.

Senior wildlife expert and National Committee Chairperson Ashiq Ahmad Khan commended the awardees for patrolling remote areas, preventing illegal hunting, and serving as true guardians of the nation’s natural heritage.

DIG Forests Haseena Ambreen highlighted that the awards aim to encourage local protectors who selflessly work to conserve snow leopards and their habitats.

This year, 21 nominations were received from across the country—demonstrating the strong commitment and passion for conservation in Pakistan’s snow leopard regions.

Published in Dawn, July 16th, 2025