Wildlife populations have declined by 69% since 1970, with illegal wildlife trade (IWT), now the world’s fourth-largest black market worth over $19 billion annually, being a major driver.
Pakistan, home to iconic species like the snow leopard, faces persistent poaching challenges despite having conservation laws in place.
To honor those fighting back, the Snow Leopard Foundation (SLF), in partnership with the International Snow Leopard Trust (SLT) and the UK government’s Illegal Wildlife Trade Challenge Fund (IWTCF), organized the second Pakistan Wildlife Protection Awards (PWPA) ceremony on July 31, 2025, World Ranger Day, at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts, Islamabad.
The event was attended by approximately 150 guests, including government officials, diplomats, conservationists, and academics. It was inaugurated by Chief Guest Dr. Shezra Mansab Kharal, Minister of State for Climate Change.
READ MORE: International Snow Leopard Day 2024
A major highlight was the unveiling of Pakistan’s first science-based snow leopard population estimate, 167 individuals, determined through genetic sampling, camera trapping, and prey biomass analysis.
Seven wildlife rangers and watchers from GB, KP, and AJK were honored for their extraordinary courage and dedication:
| Award | Recipient | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Snow Leopard Award (National) | Muhammad Ismail | AJK |
| Blue Sheep Award | Sher Afgan Ali | GB |
| Brown Bear Award | Muhammad Raza | GB |
| Wolf Award | Sakhawat Ali | GB |
| Ibex Award | Israr Ullah | KP |
| Markhor Award | Muhammad Saleem | KP |
| Musk Deer Award | Mehboob Shah | AJK |
The ceremony also featured the premiere screening of the documentary “Beyond Boundaries – The Wild Heartbeat of Chitral Rangers”, celebrating the daily sacrifices of frontline conservation heroes across Pakistan’s mountain landscapes.
By: SLF Admin 
