World Pangolin Day is celebrated every year to raise awareness among large groups of people about pangolins and their threats to the conservation of a very unique species on earth. The mixed types of activities included science, cultures, communities, foods and local technology along with the establishment of a community-led pangolin information center for the first time in Nepal on the occasion of World Pangolin Day 2024.
World Pangolin Day in all three districts (Dhading, Sindhuli and Lamjung) was accomplished successfully with overall participation of about 2500 participants from local and national stakeholders (DFOs, Dhading, Sindhuli and Lamjung and Sub-division Forest Officers, Dudhauli Municipality representatives), Journalists (Federation Nilkantha F.M, Radio Bihani), Security Forces, Community Forest User Groups, students from Universities and Schools. All the guests, guardians, and representative speakers admired the organizers for organizing this program.
The campaign established the base for effective conservation of the pangolins in the three districts. School children excitedly enjoyed pangolin face painting. Not only the students but also the local people were made aware of the pangolins, their importance, threats, and conservational strategies through this campaign. The presentation of students like poems and dances helped enhance their creativity as well as in-depth knowledge. Posters, brochures, and leaflets in the exhibition allowed participants to understand animals in a concise and visually engaging format in a short time. The display of pangolin statues represented the physical appearance so that everyone gets familiar with these shy nocturnal species. The wildlife clubs formed will be continuing the awareness activities locally. It was indeed a fruitful campaign.