Chitral — A Russian national has legally hunted a rare Kashmiri markhor in the Chitral district after obtaining a trophy hunting permit worth $68,000, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
The hunt was carried out under Pakistan’s regulated trophy hunting program, which allows a limited number of foreign and local hunters to hunt specific endangered species each year under strict government supervision. Authorities said the permit was issued following all legal and environmental requirements.
Wildlife officials stated that 80 percent of the permit fee will go directly to local communities, while the remaining amount will be allocated to conservation efforts. The program is designed to incentivize wildlife protection by providing financial benefits to residents who help preserve habitats and prevent illegal poaching.
“The trophy hunting program has played a key role in increasing the population of markhor over the years,” a wildlife department spokesperson said, adding that strict quotas ensure the species is not threatened.
The Kashmiri markhor, Pakistan’s national animal, is listed as a protected species, and only old, non-breeding males are selected for hunting under scientific assessments.
Despite its conservation framework, trophy hunting continues to spark debate, with critics questioning its ethical implications, while supporters argue it generates crucial funding for conservation and rural development.
Officials emphasized that illegal hunting remains strictly prohibited and warned of severe penalties for violations.
