Seven frontline wildlife protectors have been honoured with the Pakistan Wildlife Protection Awards 2025 for their outstanding work conserving endangered species in Pakistan’s snow leopard range.
The Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination (MoCC&EC), in partnership with the Snow Leopard Foundation (SLF), announced the winners after reviewing 21 nominations from across Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), Gilgit-Baltistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The prestigious Snow Leopard Award went to Muhammad Ismail, a Game Watcher from the AJK Wildlife Department, for his exemplary service in conservation.
From Gilgit-Baltistan, Sher Afgan Ali, Muhammad Raza, and Sakhawat Ali received the Blue Sheep, Brown Bear, and Wolf Awards respectively, while Israr Ullah and Muhammad Saleem from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were honoured with the Ibex Award and Markhor Award. Mehboob Shah, Game Watcher from AJK, received the Musk Deer Award.
A formal ceremony will be held later this month to present the awards.
Minister of State for Climate Change Dr. Shezra Mansab Kharal praised the winners as “the unsung heroes of conservation,” noting their crucial role in fighting biodiversity loss and climate change.
Wildlife Ambassador Sardar Jamal Khan Leghari said protecting wildlife was essential for maintaining ecosystems and safeguarding future generations, while Dr. Muhammad Ali Nawaz, Director of SLF, highlighted the difficult conditions under which many rangers work.
“These awards not only honour individual dedication but underscore Pakistan’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage,” said Ashiq Ahmad Khan, Chair of the National Committee for the Citizen Ranger Wildlife Protection Program.
MoCC&EC and SLF pledged continued support for the Citizen Ranger Wildlife Protection Program and broader conservation initiatives across Pakistan.
