ISLAMABAD: The nation is celebrating the 86th Pakistan Day with traditional enthusiasm and national spirit.
The day is being observed as a public holiday nationwide.
The celebrations began with 31-gun salutes in the federal capital Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals, followed by special prayers in mosques for the country’s peace, stability, and prosperity.
Soldiers of the Pakistan Army raised slogans and offered prayers for national security during the ceremonies.
This year, the celebrations are being held in a simple and modest manner due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the government’s policy of austerity.
The traditional Pakistan Day parade has been cancelled, and the main flag-hoisting ceremony is being conducted in a dignified but low-key way.
Similar flag-hoisting ceremonies are being held across the country with simplicity and cost-saving measures.
Historically, Pakistan Day was first officially celebrated on March 23, 1959. After independence in 1947, the day was observed routinely until the country adopted its first constitution on March 23, 1956, under the leadership of Iskander Mirza and Chaudhry Muhammad Ali.
The adoption of the constitution was considered a major milestone, and the day was designated to be celebrated annually at the national level.
