Zubair Qireshi
The key stakeholders and climate activists on Wednesday reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation at an award-giving event organized to mark the World Ranger Day at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA).
The speakers underscored the collective resolve to protect and preserve Pakistan’s rich biodiversity and wildlife habitats for future generations.
This event also showcased momentous wildlife photos by internationally acclaimed Pakistani wildlife photographer Jamal Leghari, launching of a book by the late Zahid Baig Mirza and screening of a documentary on snow leopard “The Silent King.”
The highlight of the event was the inauguration of the Pakistan Wildlife Protection Awards, where the efforts of dedicated wildlife protection champions were celebrated and honored.
The event was jointly organized by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Snow Leopard Foundation and Devcom-Pakistan with the support of Snow Leopard Trust, Illegal Wildlife Trade Challenge Fund, Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), and the provincial wildlife and forest departments of Gilgit-Baltistan, AJK, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Romina Khursheed Alam, was the chief guest. The guests of honour included Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, Head of Climate Change at the British High Commission in Pakistan Anna Balance, Ambassador of Norway to Pakistan Per Albert Ilsaas, and Senator and Wildlife Ambassador Sardar Jamal Khan Leghari.
Romina Khursheed Alam while speaking on the occasion congratulated the award recipients and highlighted the indispensable role of wildlife guards, watchers, and rangers in safeguarding the country’s natural heritage. She emphasized the importance of their dedication and bravery in combating wildlife poaching and preserving ecosystems.
“Today, we recognize six exemplary wildlife protectors from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan,” she said.
These individuals have shown extraordinary courage and dedication in protecting our precious wildlife and natural habitats. Their efforts remind us of the crucial role that each of us plays in preserving the biodiversity that sustains our ecosystems, she added.
These awards are not merely tokens of appreciation, they symbolize our collective resolve to support and honor those who stand at the forefront of conservation. We shall not forget the challenges that lie ahead. Climate change poses a significant threat to our ecosystems and the wildlife that inhabit them. It is imperative that we continue to strengthen our conservation efforts.”
Sardar Jamal Khan Leghari briefing about his photos said he had tried to bring to life the grace of the soaring raptors, the stealth of the prowling big cats, and the vibrant colors of the endemic bird species that call Pakistan home.
