Forest Cover in Gilgit Baltistan only 4.82%, private holdings dominate at 71%  

The Senate Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit Baltistan, and States and Frontier Regions convened under the chairmanship

Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit Baltistan, and States and Frontier Regions convened under the chairmanship of Senator Asad Qasim to review forest management, wildlife conservation, and related environmental concerns in Gilgit Baltistan.

Officials briefed the Committee that forest cover in Gilgit Baltistan stands at 4.82 percent, including social forestry initiatives. Under the Gilgit Baltistan Forest Act, 2019, forests in Diamer District are divided into 71 percent private forests and 29 percent protected forests. Forest ownership derives from the Accession Deed of 1952, with management conducted according to approved working plans and existing laws.

The Committee raised serious concerns about illegal forest cutting and stressed the urgent need for stronger enforcement mechanisms. A transparent permission system to ensure sustainable forest management and prevent unlawful exploitation. Following deliberations, the Chairman constituted a sub committee tasked with on site consultation of stakeholders and submission of a detailed report within 30 days.

The session also highlighted the region’s wildlife conservation efforts, including the Trophy Hunting Programme in 63 Community Controlled Hunting Areas (CCHAs). Officials noted that 80 percent of revenue from trophy hunting is distributed to local communities, while 20 percent is retained by the government. The programme targets species such as Astor Markhor, Blue Sheep, and Himalayan Ibex. Over the last five years, 319 hunts were successfully conducted, generating Rs. 1,008.72 million, with reduced revenue in 2025–26 due to lower foreign participation amid the Iran US conflict.

Further discussions addressed population assessment methods, hunting quotas, and revenue allocation to support conservation and community development. The Committee emphasized careful quota management to prevent illegal hunting and ensure the sustainability of endangered species, including the 7,500 strong Astor Markhor population.

Additionally, the session reviewed maintenance allowances for beneficiaries of former princely states, including the Ameer of Bahawalpur, Mir of Khairpur, notables of Chitral, dependents of the former Nawabs of Dir and Makran, and others. Annual allocations for these beneficiaries total Rs. 40.936 million, distributed under the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit Baltistan & SAFRON, and the Ministry of Finance. The Committee directed officials to provide comprehensive reports on vehicle use, budget allocations, and administrative frameworks governing these expenditures.