Lahore: With the arrival of August, preparations for Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day have begun across Punjab in a dignified and enthusiastic manner.
The Punjab government has laid out a comprehensive plan for this year’s celebrations, with a strong focus on engaging youth and children in events that promote national pride, cultural heritage, and the importance of truth and freedom.
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People waving national flags during celebration ceremony[/caption]
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced that this year’s theme is “From the Acquisition of Independence to the Protection of Independence”, symbolizing the continued struggle to uphold the country’s values and sovereignty.
Highlighting the role of the younger generation, she said, “Youth and children will take center stage in this year’s Independence Day celebrations. Messages from children, national heroes, celebrities, athletes, and other prominent figures will be featured to emphasize patriotism and the value of freedom.”
The Chief Minister emphasized that the celebrations will also reflect Pakistan’s recent successes in the “Battle of Truth – Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos,” which she described as a symbol of national unity and resilience.
The Chief Minister said, “Main Independence Day ceremony will be held at Huzuri Bagh on August 14, where I will hoist national flag.” She added, “I will unveil ‘Battle of Truth Park’, ‘Battle of Truth Museum’ and ‘Memorial of Battle of Truth’ at Expo Center Lahore on August 14.”
She underscored, “Public Celebrations will be held with full participation of all sections of society. Houses, shops and markets will be decorated with national flags and banners. A campaign to hoist Pakistani flag on houses has been launched across Punjab. The government and private buildings across Punjab have started lighting up Independence Day lights.” She highlighted, “Special road shows will be held on Independence Day, floats will also be run to express cultures of the country.”
Maryam Nawaz Sharif said, “Fireworks and laser shows will be held at Minar-e-Pakistan on August 9. Fireworks and laser shows will also be held at tehsil and division levels. Flag hoisting ceremonies will be held at Chief Minister’s Office and other government offices on August 10.”
Commending the armed forces, Maryam Nawaz said, “Under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, our forces have written a golden chapter in the defence of Pakistan’s freedom. The unity between the people and our military has proven our nation’s strength.”
In her concluding message, she called on citizens from all walks of life to participate in the Independence Day festivities:
“I invite every Pakistani—mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, elders, and youth—to take part in these celebrations and show the world that we are a proud, vibrant, and united nation.”
