Pakistan Observes Gratitude Day to Celebrate Historic Victory Against India

Pakistan commemorates its monumental victory over India with a day of gratitude. Flag-hoisting ceremonies, prayers for national security, and tributes to martyrs highlight the nationwide observance.

Pakistan is marking a Day of Gratitude today to celebrate a historic victory in its defense against Indian aggression. The day commenced in Islamabad with a 31-gun salute, while provincial capitals and Gilgit-Baltistan echoed with 21-gun salutes.

Across the nation, mosques held Qur’an recitations and special prayers for the country’s security and to honor the martyrs following the Fajr prayers. Wreath-laying ceremonies are ongoing at monuments dedicated to the fallen heroes, accompanied by prayer services.

The main ceremony is being held at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif presiding as the chief guest. Also in attendance are Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, and the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Flag-hoisting ceremonies are taking place nationwide, with floral tributes and prayer services paying homage to the martyrs. Additionally, meetings with the families of martyrs have been arranged to acknowledge their sacrifices.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have expressed their admiration for the martyrs of the Marka-e-Haq in their messages on Youm-e-Tashakur. They described the observance as a day to thank Allah Almighty for Pakistan’s decisive victory against India’s open aggression.

President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing the significance of the victory in Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos. Prime Minister Sharif commended the armed forces for their heroic response, stating that they not only defended the country but also upheld Pakistan’s dignity and principles as a sovereign nation.

During a visit to Kamra Airbase on Thursday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, accompanied by senior military officials, announced that Pakistan Air Force (PAF) pilots downed six Indian aircraft during the recent conflict – one more than previously reported.

Addressing the pilots, he stated, “Our Shaheens have given the enemy a befitting reply and created a historic moment in military history. In less than 10 hours, you wrote a chapter of courage that will be remembered forever.”