The Colombo Plan Staff College (CPSC) heartfully extends its greetings of peace and solidarity to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in remembrance of their 84th National Day this March 23, 2024.

History

Muhammad Zafrulla Khan, 1948
Photo courtesy of Encyclopædia Britannica

Pakistan National Day, also known as Pakistan Resolution Day or Pakistan Day, marks the day that the Lahore Resolution was adopted by the working committee of the All India Muslim League in 1940. The Resolution was written and prepared by Muhammad Zafarullah Khan, which aimed to support Muslims in India for their right to independence.

The National Day also commemorates the first constitution of Pakistan during the transition of the Dominion of Pakistan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan that led the country as the world’s first Islamic republic. With this, Pakistan National Day is celebrated annually throughout the country as a public holiday.

Celebrations

Military parade, 2015
Photo courtesy of Anadolu Ajansı

The main celebration of the country’s National Day is usually held in Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. Every year, the President of Pakistan is invited as the Chief Guest, together with the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Cabinet Ministers, military chiefs of staff, and chairman joint chiefs.

The Pakistan Armed Forces hold a parade as part of the celebration, showing a glimpse of their power and capabilities during the parade. The full circle of parade in the capital is usually inaugurated by the President of Pakistan early in the morning. This is followed by the conferment of national awards and medals to the awardees. In addition, wreaths are also laid and hung at the mausoleums of Muhammad Iqbal and Muhammad Ali Jinnah in honor of the Republic Day.

One of Iqbal's mausoleums
Photo courtesy of Dunya News

Video Description: On March 23, 1940, the historic Lahore Resolution paved the way for the creation of Pakistan, fulfilling the dream of a separate state for Muslims. Countless invaluable lives were sacrificed in the making of Pakistan, and #PakistanDay serves as a reminder to honor those who laid down their lives for this nation.

#PakistanDay reignites the spirit of patriotism in every Pakistani's heart. On this occasion, the journey of sacrifices and relentless efforts since 1940 is remembered in every corner of the country.

Join us in celebrating the spirit of Pakistan and honoring the sacrifices made for its creation.

Reference

  • 23 MARCH PAKISTAN RESOLUTION DAY, ALSO REPUBLIC DAY – The Diplomatic Informer. (n.d.).
    https://diplomaticinformer.com/23-march-pakistan-resolution-day-also-republic-day/
  • PWOnlyIAS. (2024, March 5). Pakistan’s National Day: Commemorating History, Rekindling ties with India - PWOnlyIAS. PWOnlyIAS.
    https://pwonlyias.com/current-affairs/pakistan-national-day/
  • Wantinee. (n.d.). Pakistan National Day, 23 March. Assumption University of Thailand.
    https://www.au.edu/news-importantdates/pakistan-national-day-23-march.html