DUSHANBE, 27.05.2025 (NIAT Khovar) – The “Markhor – 2025” festival took place on May 24 in the Dashtijum State Nature Reserve, marking International Markhor Day—an initiative of the President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, and endorsed by the UN General Assembly.

The festival aimed to raise awareness about wildlife conservation, particularly the endangered markhor (Capra falconeri), promote ecological cooperation, and celebrate local cultural and agricultural heritage.

Visitors enjoyed exhibitions of handicrafts, agricultural products, traditional music, games, food tastings, and hands-on workshops.

Winners of contests for best drawings, essays, and videos about the markhor were awarded, with the goal of fostering environmental awareness among youth.

The markhor, known for its impressive spiral horns, is native to Central Asia and primarily found in the Hissor Range, Darvaz District, and Wakhan Corridor.

According to the latest data, the total of markhors in the country is estimated at approximately 2,000 to 3,000 individuals.