Day serves as a tribute to soldiers, civilians who made sacrifices, laid down their lives in defence of the motherland
Defence Day is observed in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Sunday. — EXPRESS
MUZAFFRABAD:
With the memories of the sacrifices of the nation’s martyrs and the spirit of September 6 echoing across the mountains and valleys, Defence Day was observed throughout Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Sunday with patriotic fervour, national pride and a renewed pledge to stand united in defence of Pakistan.
From the capital city to towns and remote valleys across AJK, the day was marked by ceremonies and activities paying tribute to the armed forces and those who laid down their lives in defence of the motherland, while a colourful defence and cultural exhibition at Narul Cricket Stadium in Muzaffarabad brought together civil and military officials, students and citizens of AJK.
Acting AJK President Chaudhry Tariq Farooq and Prime Minister Iftikhar Gilani inaugurated the exhibition, which showcased the capabilities, services and contributions of various defence, emergency response and public-sector institutions.
Read: Defence Day: How valiant armed forces defended their motherland
The event was attended by senior civil and military officials, including AJK Chief Secretary Khushal Khan and the general officer commanding (GOC) Chinar Division.
The dignitaries visited stalls set up by the Pakistan Army, Pakistan Air Force, Pakistan Navy, Boy Scouts, police, Rescue 1122, Special Communications Organisation (SCO), Civil Defence and the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA).
The displays offered visitors an insight into the role of these institutions in national defence, emergency response, communications, disaster management and public service.
The exhibition also celebrated Pakistan’s diverse cultural heritage, with stalls representing Sindh, Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan(G-B) and AJK.
Traditional displays, national songs, regional music and traditional games added colour to the event, drawing considerable interest from visitors.
In a symbolic expression of national unity, the dignitaries were presented with traditional headgear representing different regions of Pakistan. The acting president, prime minister, chief secretary and GOC Chinar Division were presented with Sindhi caps, Balochi turbans, the traditional cap of G-B and Punjabi turbans.
Rescue 1122 personnel conducted a practical demonstration highlighting their preparedness to respond to emergencies. The exercise demonstrated procedures for dealing with accidents and other emergency situations and was keenly watched by visitors.
Several government departments also showcased their activities and public-oriented initiatives. Stalls representing tourism, forests, agriculture, the Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (TEVTA), mineral resources, wildlife, medical services and women’s development provided information about ongoing projects, public services and development programmes.
The Defence Day observances served as a tribute to the soldiers and civilians who made sacrifices for the country and as a reminder of the values of courage, sacrifice, unity and national service.
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The participation of institutions representing different parts of Pakistan, alongside the display of regional cultures, reinforced the message of national unity and solidarity associated with September 6.
For the people of AJK, the occasion carried particular significance, as the region has remained closely connected with the country’s defence and national struggle. The ceremonies and public participation reflected a continuing sense of pride in the armed forces and a collective resolve to uphold the country’s sovereignty, security and unity.
