September 5, 2003	Friday	Rajab 7, 1424

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ISLAMABAD, Sept 4: Defence Day of Pakistan will be observed on Saturday to pay homage to the martyrs who rendered sacrifices in defending the motherland against aggression.

In pursuance of the directives of Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali, the day will be observed with simplicity.

This time, arm displays and rallies by retired personnel of the armed forces will not be held to express sympathies and sorrow with the flood-affected people.

Special prayers will be offered for the solidarity, integrity and independence of the motherland in all the mosques after Fajr prayers.

Wreaths will be laid at the Mazars of the recipients of Nishan-i-Haider.

Commanding officers of ground, sea and air units will read out the messages from the president and respective services chiefs highlighting the spirit of 1965 war.

Fateha Khawani at the graves of martyrs has also been arranged. Hilal-i-Istiqalal (special defence flag) will be hoisted in the cities of Lahore,

Sargodha and Sialkot where civilians braved the aggression of the enemy with dignity and honour and forced the enemy to retreat.

Wreaths will also be laid on the Mazars of Quaid-i-Azam and Allama Iqbal by Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Army, respectively.

Pakistan Television and private channels besides Radio Pakistan will telecast special programmes to highlight the significance of the day.

Print media will publish special supplement to highlight the stories of courage and valour displayed during the previous war and pay homage to the Ghazis and Shudahs.

A special edition of the armed forces weekly Hilal is being carried out by Inter Services Public Relations.