(MENAFN- Tribal News Network) In a significant step toward recognizing the courage and dedication of frontline conservationists, the Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination (MoCC&EC), in partnership with the Snow Leopard Foundation (SLF) and wildlife departments from Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), has announced the recipients of the Pakistan Wildlife Protection Awards 2025.

The awards, now in their latest iteration under the Citizen Ranger Wildlife Protection Program (CRWPP), honor individuals and communities who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to preserving Pakistan's wildlife, particularly within the snow leopard range areas. After careful evaluation of 21 nominations during the third meeting of the National Committee, seven individuals and one community have been selected for top honors across various categories.

This year's prestigious Snow Leopard Award (national category) will be presented to Muhammad Ismail, a Game Watcher with the AJK Wildlife Department, for his unwavering dedication to wildlife conservation and field protection duties.

From Gilgit-Baltistan, three officers will receive top category awards:

Sher Afgan Ali: Blue Sheep Award

Muhammad Raza: Brown Bear Award

Sakhawat Ali: Wolf Award

From Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, two recipients have been selected:

Israr Ullah, Deputy Ranger - Ibex Award

Muhammad Saleem, Wildlife Watcher - Markhor Award

Meanwhile, from AJK, Mehboob Shah, Game Watcher with the Department of Wildlife, has earned the Musk Deer Award.

The winners will be formally honoured later this month in a high-profile ceremony hosted by the MoCC&EC and SLF.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr. Shezra Mansab Kharal applauded the initiative and the honourees:

“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. Their efforts are essential in our fight against biodiversity loss and climate change.”

Sardar Jamal Khan Leghari, Wildlife Ambassador, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the larger implications of wildlife protection:

“Protecting wildlife is not just about saving species, it's about preserving the balance of our ecosystems and the wellbeing of future generations. These awards recognize real action on the ground, people who have prevented poaching, protected endangered species, and stood guard over our mountains and forests.”

Dr. Muhammad Ali Nawaz, Director of the Snow Leopard Foundation, highlighted the difficult and often invisible work carried out by field staff:

“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.”

Mr. Ashiq Ahmad Khan, senior wildlife expert and Chair of the National Committee, drew attention to the daily sacrifices made by those protecting the wilderness:

“From patrolling remote mountains to preventing wildlife crimes, these individuals are guardians of our natural heritage. Recognizing their service is essential to inspire continued commitment and support for conservation.”

Ms. Haseena Anbarin, DIG Forest, MoCC&EC, emphasized the grassroots nature of the awards:

“These local champions often work without expecting reward. Honouring them reaffirms the value of their work and motivates further protection of snow leopards and fragile habitats.”

With strong representation from the mountainous landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and AJK, key habitats for snow leopards and other endangered species, the awards continue to cast a national spotlight on community and individual-led conservation efforts.

MoCC&EC and the SLF have reaffirmed their joint commitment to expanding the Citizen Ranger Wildlife Protection Program, raising public awareness, and fostering a future where both humans and wildlife coexist in harmony.

These awards not only celebrate service, they inspire a national ethos of environmental responsibility and reverence for Pakistan's natural wonders.

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