Today (8th May) is World Donkey Day
Today, the entire world observes World Donkey Day. On this day, animal lovers honour donkeys for their immense contribution to human civilization. For centuries, these hardy and intelligent animals have carried goods, worked in farms and supported transport in difficult terrains, particularly in rural areas of Asia, Africa and Latin America. Despite their importance, donkeys are often neglected, overworked and subjected to cruelty.The day also draws attention to the growing threat from the international skin trade for ejiao, a traditional Chinese product, which has sharply reduced donkey populations in several countries. Animal welfare organizations mark the occasion by promoting humane treatment, veterinary care and greater public appreciation for donkeys' role in society.
However, due to my convoluted brain, I always think that this day is not only observed but celebrated in Pakistan with much fanfare! The Pakistanis have every reason for this celebration. Pakistan has achieved the rare honour of being among the top two countries in donkey production. Not only that, Pakistan earns a considerable amount of foreign exchange by exporting donkeys, donkey meat and bones of donkeys to China and some other countries. Chinese people think that bones of donkeys and some other body parts of donkeys have medicinal value. They also relish donkey meat.
Occasionally, I also think about wild asses found in the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. These wild asses are on the verge of extinction and sincere efforts must be made to save this wild animal.