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Govt to encourage steps for well being of animals: PM
ISLAMABAD, Oct 4 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said the government will encourage every step in order to promote and protect the physical and psychological well being of animals. In a message on World Animal Day falling on October 4, the Prime Minister said the day draws the collective attention to the state of rights endowed on the animals the world over. The Day was dedicated at an ecologist’s convention in Florence, Italy in 1931, to highlight the plight of endangered species.Gilani said the World Animal Day 2010 is intended as a day to recognize those who care about the animals.
He said, “Islam attaches great importance to the rights of animals. It has ordained its followers to mete out humane treatment to the animals. It is, therefore, our religious duty to make sure that animals are treated well.”
“The World Animal Day is currently celebrated by the animal lovers from different nationalities and political beliefs. It denotes our appreciation of the relationships of the human beings with animals who share our earth in different ways and contribute to our lives,” he added.
The Premier said the day also provides an opportunity to ensure caring treatment for the farm animals and also to promote the conditions of habitat for the wild animals.
According to a recent research conducted by Georgetown University, a society where animals are not treated well also fails to treat its citizens well, he mentioned.
He said Pakistan is blessed with diversified animal resources.
It includes farm animals/livestock, pets, birds and wildlife etc.
The contribution of livestock to Pakistan’s GDP (11.4%), foreign exchange earnings (8.5%) and rural socio-economic development of the country is significant, he added.
The protection of animals are being regulated by Livestock Laws and Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act, 1890, Rules 1961 and amendments made in 1981. The law takes care of various aspects of animal welfare that include transportation of animals, feeding, watering and resting for animals, etc.
Gilani said it is obligatory for every one to treat animals as living beings.
“The World Animal Day enlightens us about our responsibility to encourage everybody to use this special day to exhibit their love and care for animals which add colours to our surroundings and are also a source of our livelihood.”
He said the government of Pakistan through its concerned Ministries like Livestock & Dairy Development, Food & Agriculture as well as Environment assures that it shall encourage every step in order to promote, protect and preserve animals for their physical, psychological and environmental/habitat well being.Courtesy www.app.com.pk