ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination (MoCC&EC), in collaboration with the Snow Leopard Foundation (SLF) and wildlife departments from Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir, has announced the recipients of the Pakistan Wildlife Protection Awards 2025. These awards recognise exceptional contributions to the conservation and protection of wildlife in snow leopard range areas.
Following a thorough review of nominations in the third meeting of the National Committee for the Citizen Ranger Wildlife Protection Program (CRWPP), seven dedicated individuals have been selected to receive awards in different categories, while one award has been reserved for the community.
This year’s Snow Leopard Award (national category) will go to Muhammad Ismail, Game Watcher from the AJK Wildlife Department, for his exemplary commitment to wildlife conservation.
From Gilgit-Baltistan, three officers, Sher Afgan Ali, Muhammad Raza, and Sakhawat Ali, will be honoured for the Blue Sheep Award, Brown Bear Award and Wolf Award, respectively. Israr Ullah, deputy ranger, and Muhammad Saleem, wildlife watcher from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have been declared winners for the Ibex Award and Markhor Award, while Mehboob Shah Gam, watcher at the department of wildlife,e AJK, has been declared winner for the Musk Deer Award.
The awards will be presented during a formal ceremony organised by MoCC&EC and SLF later this month.
Minister of State for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr Shezra Mansab Kharal, appreciated Pakistan wildlife protection awards and said
“The Pakistan Wildlife Protection Awards are a powerful reminder of the courage and commitment shown by those who work tirelessly to protect our country’s natural heritage. These rangers, officers, and community members are the unsung heroes of conservation, and their efforts are essential in our fight against biodiversity loss and climate change. As a nation, we must continue to support and celebrate their role in securing a more sustainable future.”
The Wildlife Ambassador, Sardar Jamal Khan Leghari, appreciated the initiative and said, “Protecting wildlife is not just about saving species—it’s about preserving the balance of our ecosystems and the well-being of future generations. These awards recognise real action on the ground—people who have prevented poaching, protected endangered species, and stood guard over our mountains and forests. Their service deserves not only our gratitude, but our collective support in building a resilient and wildlife-rich Pakistan.”
Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Muhammad Ali Nawaz, Director of the Snow Leopard Foundation, stated:
“These awards are not just a recognition of individual dedication, but a celebration of our collective commitment to wildlife protection. Our rangers are on the frontlines, often in difficult conditions, safeguarding species that are critical to the region’s biodiversity and ecosystem health.”
Mr. Ashiq Ahmad Khan, senior wildlife expert and Chair of the National Committee, emphasised the importance of acknowledging both the challenges and sacrifices of field staff.
“From patrolling remote mountains to preventing wildlife crimes, these individuals are guardians of our natural heritage. Recognising their service is essential to inspire continued commitment and support for conservation.”
Ms. Haseena Anbarin, DIG Forest, MoCC&EC, endorsed the recognition of local champions who go above and beyond in protecting snow leopards and their habitats, often without expecting any reward.
With 21 nominations reviewed from across the snow leopard range areas, the Pakistan Wildlife Protection Awards continue to highlight the extraordinary efforts of those who often remain unseen yet play a critical role in preserving Pakistan’s natural treasures.
The Ministry of Climate Change and SLF reaffirm their commitment to strengthening the Citizen Ranger Wildlife Protection Program, promoting conservation awareness, and building a future where both people and wildlife can thrive.
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