PESHAWAR: The people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Thursday paid glowing tributes to the defenders of Pakistan for defeating a three-time larger enemy India one year ago, a great achievement widely described as a defining moment in the country’s defence history.

The entire nation commemorates the first anniversary of Marka-i-Haq, in which Pakistan has achieved a historic victory against a much larger adversary and emerged stronger on its military, diplomatic and strategic fronts.

Marka-e-Haq, spanning April 22 to May 10, 2025, is marked across Pakistan including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan to pay homage to the brave armed forces and acknowledge the steadfast resolve of the elected government and national leadership.

From Khyber to Kohistan and Waziristan to Chitral, large rallies, public gatherings and commemorative events were organised to celebrate the first anniversary of Marka-i-Haq, where participants raised enthusiastic slogans in support of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, CDF/COAS Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and all Pakistan Armed Forces, reaffirming their strong commitment to national unity and sovereignty.

A major rally held at Pabbi, Nowshera, drew political workers, youth, civil society representatives and local elders in large numbers and raised the Pakistani flag and photos of the services chiefs.

Speakers at the gathering highly praised the courage, professionalism and sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces for frustrating the enemy’s nefarious designs and safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity.

President PML-N Nowshera Sahibzada Hamza said the completion of one year of Marka-i-Haq marks a defining chapter in Pakistan’s defence history.

He described it as a symbol of resilience, unity, courage and unwavering determination of the Pakistani nation.

He said one of the greatest achievements of Marka-i-Haq was the reaffirmation of protection of Pakistan’s sovereignty and national pride, proving that the country possessed the capability and resolve to defend its interests against all odds.

He said that the spirit of self-reliance and unity promoted during Marka-i-Haq encouraged industries, businesses and youth to contribute positively toward national development.

Former chairman, IR Department, University of Peshawar, Prof Adnan Sarwar Khan while talking to APP said Marka-i-Haq embodied resilience, bravery and determination of the Pakistani nation and demonstrated the country’s ability to overcome both internal and external challenges without compromising its sovereignty.

Professor Dr Naushad, former VC Islamia College Peshawar University told APP Marka-i-Haq acted as a catalyst for national unity and patriotism, inspiring youth to contribute toward national development and reconnecting the country with the founding principles of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah based on unity, faith and discipline.

Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos delivered a strong response to enemy aggression and demonstrated Pakistan’s capability to defend itself effectively on all fronts.

Published in Dawn, May 8th, 2026