Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Grants 39 Markhor Hunting Permits
PESHAWAR – The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife Department has issued 39 permits for trophy hunting of markhor, Pakistan’s national wild goat, under its controlled hunting program. This program allows limited hunting of specific-age male markhor to maintain ecological balance while generating funds for conservation efforts.
According to officials, one of the hunting permits fetched the highest bid of $246,000, equivalent to over 7 crore Pakistani rupees. The amount highlights the growing interest of international hunters in trophy hunting programs in Pakistan, which are tightly regulated to prevent overhunting.
Funding Conservation and Community Welfare
The Wildlife Department stated that the program is expected to generate a total revenue of approximately 54.27 crore rupees. The funds will be allocated to wildlife protection initiatives, habitat restoration, and projects supporting local communities.
Experts argue that such programs can be a sustainable source of conservation funding if properly managed. “Revenue from trophy hunting, when reinvested, directly benefits both wildlife and rural communities,” said a departmental official. “It helps maintain populations of species like the markhor while improving local livelihoods.”
Controlled Hunting for Ecological Balance
The trophy hunting scheme permits the hunting of male markhor of certain ages. This restriction ensures that the overall population remains healthy and that genetic diversity is preserved. Markhor, known for their impressive spiral horns, are classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In the wild, they face threats from habitat loss and poaching.
Controlled hunting has been a controversial but effective conservation tool in several countries. For Pakistan, these carefully monitored programs have become a key strategy to balance ecological needs with financial incentives for local residents.
A Growing Interest in Pakistan’s Trophy Hunting
In recent years, Pakistan has seen an increase in foreign hunters participating in regulated hunting programs, particularly in mountainous regions like Chitral, Gilgit-Baltistan, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Wildlife Department emphasizes that all hunts are subject to strict rules, including permits, age restrictions, and quotas.
While trophy hunting remains controversial internationally, supporters argue that it can fund conservation where government budgets are limited. “Without these funds, many anti-poaching and habitat restoration initiatives would struggle,” said a conservation analyst familiar with Pakistan’s programs.
Conclusion
The 2025 markhor trophy hunting permits mark another step in Pakistan’s efforts to use sustainable hunting as a tool for conservation. By generating millions of dollars in revenue, the program aims to protect wildlife while also improving the economic conditions of local communities dependent on natural resources.
