The Govt has approved trophy hunting quotas for the 2025–26 season, citing verified population surveys and scientific assessments. Officials said the decision is based on evidence rather than routine administrative practice.
The quotas were issued through the CITES Management Authority of Pakistan after reviewing population data submitted by provincial wildlife departments. The Govt emphasized that this step reflects a move toward transparent and evidence-based wildlife governance.
Pakistan, a party to both the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and CITES, is implementing sustainable-use practices to meet its international conservation obligations, according to a ministry spokesperson.
The approved quotas cover several high-value species, including markhor, Himalayan ibex, Sindh ibex, Blandford’s urial, Punjab urial, blue sheep, and Kennion gazelle.
The ministry highlighted that under Federal Minister Dr. Musadik Masood Malik, the allocation process has been streamlined. There is a greater focus on transparency, accountability, and reliance on credible field data. Officials acknowledged gaps in existing wildlife surveys and announced plans to standardize survey methods across provinces. This will produce more reliable population figures.
Authorities said regulated trophy hunting, when grounded in science and designed with community participation, can help finance conservation. It also provides local communities with a direct stake in protecting wildlife and their habitats.
The Govt stated that the latest quota approval aims to support sustainable wildlife populations while promoting community-based conservation. Officials added that these measures provide socio-economic benefits to people living alongside these species, ensuring both ecological sustainability and local development.
In other related news also read Gilgit-Baltistan Hikes Markhor Trophy Hunting Permit Fee To $200,000
The decision reflects the Govt’s commitment to balancing wildlife conservation, community welfare, and responsible use of natural resources.
