24/05/2026
Message from Iftikhar Uz Zaman, Conservator Wildlife, Hazara Circle
On the International Day of the Markhor
On the International Day of the Markhor, we celebrate Pakistan’s majestic national animal and a remarkable conservation success story from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Through community-based conservation initiatives, local communities became active partners in protecting wildlife and natural habitats. By linking conservation with tangible benefits such as trophy hunting revenues, eco-tourism, and community development, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has demonstrated that conservation and sustainable development can go hand in hand.
As a result, Markhor populations have significantly increased across several mountain landscapes, while local communities have benefited through improved livelihoods, infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
The Markhor today stands as a powerful symbol of successful, community-centered conservation and our collective commitment to protecting Pakistan’s natural heritage.