Kashmir, 26th May 2025:  On 2nd May 2024, the United Nations General Assembly officially declared May 24th to be observed annually as the ‘International Day of the Markhor’ —a historic step to raise global awareness about the conservation needs of the world’s largest wild goat, native to Central and South Asia. The declaration recognises the Markhor (Capra falconeri) not only as an emblem of mountainous wilderness but also as a symbol of collective conservation efforts that transcend borders.

To mark the second year of celebrating this iconic species, Wildlife Trust of India (WTI), proudly took the opportunity to organise a special event in partnership with the Department of Wildlife Protection (DWP), Jammu and Kashmir, at the Kazinag National Park — one of the most pristine and secure habitats for the Markhor in the Kashmir Himalayan landscape.

Markhor is the world’s largest goat, and is categorised as ‘Near Threatened’ under the IUCN Red List|  Photo by Shivang Mehta

WTI has been at the forefront of Markhor conservation in India for more than two decades. Through scientific research, community engagement, and collaborative field interventions, WTI has worked closely with the DWP, J&K, to safeguard the fragile habitats of the Kashmir Markhor in close collaboration with the communities and governments. This long-standing partnership has been instrumental in protecting these mountain ungulates, whose survival is closely tied to intact high-altitude ecosystems.

The celebration at Lachipora centred on youth engagement and awareness, highlighting the crucial role of the next generation in wildlife conservation. For this, we invited 45 students from two local Government schools near Lachipora Wildlife Sanctuary, a part of the Kazinag National Park. The students from grades 9th to 12th participated in a painting competition and were warmly welcomed by Dr. Tanushree Srivastava (Senior Manager & Head – J&K Projects, WTI), Mr. Sameer Khazir (Sociologist, J&K, WTI), and Muneeb Nazir (Biologist, WTI). The team engaged with the students, sharing insights about the Markhor’s ecology, its unique characteristics, and the importance of conserving the species and its habitat.

The event sparked interest about Markhor conservation among the younger generation| Photo by Muneeb Nazir /WTI

The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Intesar Suhail (Wildlife Warden, North Kashmir), Range Officers, Block Officers, forest guards, frontline forest staff, Markhor Watchers, and community representatives, who added depth to the discussions and underscored the community’s role in conservation. As students passionately expressed their understanding of the Markhor through colours and creativity, the atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and curiosity. The event was also shared widely on social media platforms, capturing the attention of hundreds and bringing the cause of Markhor conservation into the public eye.

The first International Day of the Markhor celebration successfully ignited curiosity, knowledge, and passion among young minds, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of this majestic species and its habitats. Events like these bridge the gap between local communities and conservation goals, fostering stewardship for the natural world.

WTI remains committed to organising similar initiatives in the future to build lasting awareness, celebrate biodiversity, and inspire action for the conservation of India’s magnificent mountain wildlife.