ISLAMABAD, March 22: The nation will celebrate Pakistan Day on Tuesday with a renewed pledge to make the country a strong, progressive and prosperous Islamic welfare state.

The day will dawn with the booming of a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in provincial capitals. Special prayers will be held for the country's progress, strength and solidarity.

Pakistan flag will be hoisted on principal public and private buildings throughout the country and all Pakistanis missions abroad. The day is a general public holiday as people from all walks of life will take part in different programmes to mark the occasion befittingly.

Seminars and functions will be organized to pay homage to the Father of the Nation Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and poet philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal. Speakers will highlight sacrifices rendered by the people for the creation of a separate homeland for Muslims.

President General Pervez Musharraf will confer awards on outstanding civil and military personalities in recognition of their meritorious services at an investiture ceremony.

Newspapers will bring out supplements to underscore the significance of the day and the ideals of Quaid-i-Azam, under whose leadership Muslims passed Pakistan Resolution in Lahore on March 23, 1940, a momentous milestone in the history of Pakistan movement. The public and private radio and TV channels will also air special programmes.

Thanksgiving prayers will be offered in all places of worship. Boy scouts, girl guides and students will hold rallies while cinema houses will exhibit relevant documentary films to school children and the public at large.

In addition, special exhibitions of photographs, documents etc relating to the Pakistan Movement will be held. Qirat contest, debates, essay competitions are also scheduled and the winners will be awarded prizes. -APP