KP Auctions Four Markhor Trophy Hunting Permits for Over Rs335 Million

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government in Pakistan has successfully auctioned four markhor trophy hunting permits, generating a record-breaking revenue of over Rs335 million (approximately $1.2118 million). The auction, supervised by Chief Conservator of Wildlife Dr Mohsin Farooqi, saw permits for village conservation committees in Chitral and Kohistan. The highest bid of $335,600 (around Rs92.965 million) was for the Toshi Two permit in Chitral, surpassing last year's record. Other permits, Toshi One, Gahiret Gol, and Kaigah Khowar, also fetched significant amounts, collectively contributing to the total. This program is designed not only to generate revenue but also to support local communities, with 80 percent of the proceeds allocated for their welfare and wildlife conservation, while the remaining 20 percent goes to the government treasury. This initiative builds on previous successful auctions, demonstrating a continued effort to balance conservation with community benefits.