Peshawar( The COW News Digital)The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife Department has announced extraordinary revenue from its globally recognized Trophy Hunting Program 2026, generating over $1,913,842 (approximately PKR 54.27 crore) during the recent season.
The revenue was accumulated through a combination of exportable and non-exportable permits issued for various wildlife species. Specifically, the program earned $946,000 from four exportable Markhor permits, $553,300 from nine non-exportable Markhor permits, $16,042 from twenty non-exportable Ibex permits, and $398,500 from six non-exportable Grey Goral permits.
The Trophy Hunting Program is widely regarded as a successful example of sustainable wildlife conservation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. A significant portion of the program’s proceeds is allocated to local communities living near wildlife habitats, ensuring that residents directly benefit from conservation initiatives. This approach not only helps curb illegal hunting of endangered species but also provides employment opportunities and promotes eco-tourism in the province.
According to the Wildlife Department, the program’s success reflects Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s ability to maintain a balance between wildlife protection and community development. The initiative has played a crucial role in preserving rare species such as the Markhor while simultaneously offering economic benefits to local populations.
The Trophy Hunting Program has also enhanced the province’s reputation as a global leader in community-based conservation programs. By combining regulated hunting with sustainable practices, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has created a model that other regions may replicate to safeguard natural heritage while supporting local livelihoods.
Officials emphasized that the program aligns with international standards of wildlife management, ensuring that hunting quotas are strictly controlled, and species populations are monitored to prevent ecological disruption. This model of conservation through sustainable utilization has drawn attention from conservationists and eco-tourism experts worldwide.
The success of the 2026 season underscores the potential of community-based initiatives to generate substantial revenue while simultaneously preserving biodiversity. Authorities plan to continue expanding the program, aiming to further integrate local communities into conservation efforts and enhance the province’s eco-tourism infrastructure.
