ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Museum of Natural History (PMNH), is playing a vital role in collection, preservation, and displaying of natural history of Pakistan for research and general public education.

Talking to APP, Director General, PMNH, Dr Muhammad Khan Leghari here Wednesday said that across the world museums have been considered the main source of knowledge for informal education for the people of all ages and professions.

He said that PMNH was creating awareness among the masses in general and students in particular about the natural history of the country pertaining to Botanical Sciences, Earth Sciences, and Zoological Sciences. The Museum is also engaged in the collection, identification, and research activities related to plants, animals, fossils and mineral resources of the country, he added.

Deputy Director General, PMNH, Dr Muhammad Rafique said that government should make it compulsory for all educational institutions to ensure at least one visit of the students to the Museum for learning about the past and present biodiversity, wildlife, ecosystem, fossils, rocks, marine life, minerals, stones, birds, and mammals of the country and its natural history.

He said, "The PMNH has over one million specimens including the unique samples of species". He said the Museum also conducts workshops, exhibitions and trainings for researchers, scientists and general public for creating awareness about the importance biodiversity.

M.Rafique said that PMNH has the biggest specimen of Whale Shark ever recorded, which was found in the Arabian Sea by fishermen in Pakistan marine area.

He said that the Museum has been working in collaboration with many national and international organizations in the field of scientific research.

He said that the Museum has published numerous books, research papers, field guides, and technical reports for promotion of scientific research and public awareness about the natural wealth of Pakistan and unique specimens of the country.

APP