Abstract:
Trophy hunting is acknowledged and embraced as a valuable wildlife conservation approach that
effectively safeguards and preserves natural resources. Local communities actively participate in
this practice, motivated by the incentives provided in the form of hunting fees, thus contributing
to the conservation and protection of wildlife. This study explores the economic impact of the Ibex
trophy hunting program (ITHP) in Upper Hunza (Gojal), Gilgit Baltistan. We analyzed the impact
of direct and indirect gains from ITHP on sustainable livelihood, education, and infrastructure
development for the local community. A survey is conducted in two conservancies: Khyber and
Passu with 250 respondents at the household level. Through descriptive analysis, this study finds
a significant economic impact of ITHP on the local communities. The ITHP provides employment
opportunities to 59 percent, daily wages to 62 percent, and subsistence allowance to 30 percent of
the locals. These programs provide loans for small businesses, health crises, and education which
has a direct impact on the sustainable livelihood of the locals. These gains along with the direct
cash transfer to households have changed their attitudes and perspectives regarding wildlife
protection. As a result, poaching in the study areas has significantly declined over time. Such
conservancy programs should be launched in other villages of the district to protect the wildlife
and improve the living standards of the locals.
