Pakistan Celebrates First International Day of ‘Markhor’, National Animal of Pakistan

Pakistan is celebrating the first-ever International Day of the Markhor, as declared by the United Nations. On May 2, the UN General Assembly espoused a resolution, patronized by Pakistan and eight other countries, to observe this special day on May 24 each time. The Markhor, Pakistan’s public beast, isn’t just a symbol of public pride but also plays an important ecological part.

Mohamed Yahya, the UN Resident fellow in Pakistan, emphasized Markhor’s significance for conservation sweats and sustainable tourism in the region. He stressed how guarding this species can help save the natural terrain and promote eco-friendly tourism. Pakistan’s conservation enterprise has led to a significant increase in the Markhor population, now estimated to be between 3,500 and 5,000 individuals.

Despite this success, the global population of mature Markhors remains below 6,000, making continued conservation sweats pivotal. One key action supporting the conservation of the Markhor is the ‘ Living Indus ’ design. This action has been honoured as a ‘ World Restoration Flagship ’ by the United Nations Environment Programme( UNEP).

It aims to cover and restore the natural territories within the Indus River receptacle, which is essential for the survival of the Markhor and other wildlife. The festivity of the International Day of the Markhor underscores Pakistan’s commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability.

It also serves to raise mindfulness about the significance of guarding exposed species and their territories. This new observance day encourages transnational cooperation and support for conservation sweats, ensuring that the Markhor and its natural terrain are saved for unborn generations.