PESHAWAR: Special ceremonies were organised in various cities, towns, and public spaces to mark Yaum-i-Tashakkur on Friday to commemorate Pakistan’s ‘historic’ victory over India during the recent conflict and to pay tribute to the country’s valiant armed forces and resilient people for their sacrifices in the face of Indian aggression.

The day marked the victory in operation Bunyanum Marsoos.

In Peshawar, a 21-gun salute was given, while prayers were held for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks and for national security.

Barrister Mohammad Ali Saif, adviser to chief minister on information, said that flag-hoisting ceremonies were held at government offices and public venues across the province after sunrise.

Citizens visit graves of martyrs, meet their families

At 10am, a one-minute silence was observed in all government institutions to honour the sacrifices of armed forces and civilians.

The Friday sermons focused on themes of national gratitude, unity, and resilience.

Citizens visited the graves of the martyrs, laid floral wreaths, and met their families to express solidarity with them.

A ceremony was held at the Governor’s House, where Governor Faisal Karim Kundi paid tributes to the armed forces.

The participants also prayed for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks.

Mr Kundi hoisted the national flag in the lawns of the Governor’s House, symbolising national unity and patriotism.

On the occasion, Kundi praised the bravery, skill, and valour of the armed forces in the face of Indian aggression.

He emphasised that the entire nation demonstrated unity and solidarity in support of the armed forces, proving that the people were the strength of the military.

A delegation of Peshawar Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry led by president of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Traders Association Malik Mehar Elahi and President of Peshawar chamber Shakeel Ahmed Saraf visited Brigade 102 Office and met the military officials.

Events were also organised by public and private institutions, including Rescue 1122, Khyber Medical University, forest department, Provincial Disaster Management Authority and Peshawar district administration to mark the day.

Educational institutions hosted solemn and dignified events marking the day. National flags and banners were prominently displayed in public squares, government offices, and community centres.

In Swabi, a special ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed, recipient of Nishan-i-Haider, to honour the ‘historic’ victory of Mareka-i-Haq.

A contingent of the Pakistan Army presented a guard of honour at the mausoleum of the martyr.

In Mohmand, in line with the directives of the provincial government, the Mohmand district administration also observed Youm-i-Tashakkur to pay homage to the Pakistan Army’s zeal and patriotism.

In Lower Dir, special events were held across various parts of the district to observe Yaum-i-Tashakkur.

The main ceremony, held under the chairmanship of deputy commissioner Mohammad Arif, drew a large number of local residents, government officials, teachers, and schoolchildren.

A rally was also organised in which participants raised spirited slogans of ‘Pakistan Zindabad’, reflecting national solidarity.

In Kohat, the main function of Yaum-i-Tashakkur was held at the deputy commissioner’s residence. A one-minute silence was observed at 10am, attributing it to the valiant armed forces for safeguarding the sovereignty of the nation against Indian aggression.

In Abbottabad, a special ceremony was held to pay homage to the armed forces on their successful completion of Operation Banyanum Marsoos.

Hazara division commissioner Fayyaz Ali Shah was the chief guest.

Yaum-i-Tashakkur was observed with the spirit of national unity, dignity and respect in Lakki Marwat, Bannu and Karak districts.

The education department with support of the boy scouts association organised a function at a school in Lakki city.

In Bannu, divisional commissioner Mohammad Ali Shah along with Commander 116 Brigade Naveed Ahmad performed flag hoisting.

Events were also held to mark Yaum-i-Tashakkur in Lower South Wairistan, Dera Ismail Khan, Battagram, Haripur, Mardan, Mansehra, Torghar, Upper and Lower Kohistan, Kolai-Palas, and Bajaur district.

Published in Dawn, May 17th, 2025