ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 5th Sep, 2026) National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has called for a balanced and responsible approach to wildlife conservation, stressing that protection of natural habitats, sustainable use of resources, scientific breeding and active participation of local communities were essential to preserving Pakistan’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage.
Addressing a gala dinner organised by Safari Club International (SCI) Pakistan in Islamabad on the theme “Wildlife Conservation, Sustainable Use and Responsible Stewardship”, the Speaker said concerted efforts were needed to protect wildlife while ensuring the responsible management of natural resources.
The event was attended by Federal Minister for Defence Production Muhammad Raza Hayat Harraj, parliamentarians, former parliamentarians, wildlife officials, conservation experts, members of SCI and other stakeholders.
Recalling his youth, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq fondly spoke of hunting trips with friends using pellet guns and spending long summer days outdoors at a time when mobile phones and digital gadgets were not part of everyday life. He appreciated Chairman SCI Pakistan Chapter Syed Sumsam Ali Bukhari, officials and members of the organisation for their contributions to wildlife conservation, habitat protection, responsible hunting, environmental protection, animal breeding and welfare, as well as community-focused social initiatives.
The Speaker expressed concern over environmental degradation, saying the rapid melting of glaciers and the recurring loss of lives and infrastructure caused by floods were matters of serious concern. He stressed the importance of adopting sustainable practices, including greater reliance on green energy and effective conservation of natural resources.
He recalled that Parliament of Pakistan became the world’s first Green Parliament in 2015 and was also the first government building in Pakistan to receive net-metering. He said Parliament House was now moving towards establishing its own rainwater-harvesting system to conserve and responsibly manage water resources.
Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said efforts were also being considered to introduce a resolution in the National Assembly to discourage unnecessary tree cutting and promote water-conservation facilities in newly constructed houses.
Referring to wildlife protection, he called for stronger measures to curb poaching and said sustainable wildlife management should increasingly be based on scientifically managed breeding and conservation programmes rather than practices that could threaten wildlife populations. He emphasised that protecting markhors and other wildlife was vital not only for ecological balance and preservation of the country’s natural heritage but also for strengthening Pakistan’s image as a responsible conservation-minded nation.
The Speaker also welcomed international members of Safari Club International to Pakistan and invited them to explore the country’s northern areas, glaciers, the rugged mountains of Balochistan and other tourist destinations.
During the ceremony, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq presented an award to Founder and CEO of Saazgar Engineering Works Limited Mian Asad Hameed, while Federal Minister for Defence Production Muhammad Raza Hayat Harraj presented awards to SCI members, conservationists and other stakeholders in recognition of their contributions.
