Pakistan Museum of Natural History (PMNH)
Pakistan Museum of Natural History (PMNH) situated at Garden Avenue, Shakarparian, Islamabad was established in 1976 under the patronage of Pakistan Science Foundation, Ministry of Science & Technology (Government of Pakistan). It has four principal divisions namely Botanical Sciences Division, Zoological Sciences Division, Earth Sciences Division and Public Services Division. The first three divisions are engaged in the collection, identification and research activities pertaining to plants, animals and mineral resources of Pakistan respectively, while the latter is responsible for mass education and popularization of natural history various displays, exhibits and dioramas. In addition various projects such as Virtual Orientation Gallery (VOG), Biodiversity Database and Global Networking (BGN) and Focus Baluchistan have also been initiated
Objectives
- To collect, identify and preserve natural history specimens to develop a reference collection of plants, animals, rocks, minerals and fossils found in Pakistan in order to serve as repository of all ‘type specimens’.
- To carry out research on biological and geological resources in light of their economic importance and conservation through industrial linkages and to identify end users for marketable applied research.
- To establish liaison with similar institutions both within and outside Pakistan.
- To provide research facilities and incentives to scientists from within and outside the country to work at the Museum.
- To document and display specimens in the form of attractive exhibits/films/documentaries to educate the masses about the natural wealth of Pakistan.
- To interpret our natural resources and environment in light of the past and plan for future course of action.
- To advise the government on all matters related to environment, wildlife conservation and development.
- To publish natural history books, field guides, monographs, research articles, popular literature, technical reports, bulletins, brochures, pamphlets etc. for the promotion of scientific research and public awareness.
- To provide training facilities in natural history research, education, conservation, collection, preservation, identification, curation and exhibit designing including taxidermy, modeling and casting to interested individuals and groups.
- To arrange expeditions for the study and collections of natural history specimens