March 23, 1940, laid the foundation for our independence, says Gorchani

Lahore: Minister for Mines and Minerals Sher Ali Gorchani, in his message on Pakistan Day, said on Sunday that March 23, 1940, "laid the foundation for our independence, and the Pakistan Resolution paved the way for a separate homeland for the Muslims of the Subcontinent".

He said: "Pakistan Day reminds us of national unity, sacrifices, and determination." He emphasised that Pakistan's future is bright, "and we must progress with unity and hard work. Pakistan Day is a day of renewed commitment, inspiring us to honour the sacrifices of our forefathers and work collectively for the country's development."

The minister stated that a strong, prosperous, and sovereign Pakistan is the true reward of our martyrs' sacrifices. "We must never forget these sacrifices and should play our part in the nation's progress in every possible way," he added.

Formal campaign being conducted to promote early cotton sowing

Lahore: Punjab Agriculture Secretary Iftikhar Ali Sahoo has said that for the first time in Punjab a formal campaign is being conducted to promote early cotton sowing.

He presided over the review meeting on the target for early cotton sowing here on Sunday. Punjab Agriculture (Extension) DG Chaudhry Abdul Hameed briefed the meeting on the progress of early cotton sowing.

The secretary said that with the grace of the Allah Almighty, target to achieve early sowing of cotton on one million acres would be achieved. He further announced that financial assistance would be provided to farmers who would complete early cotton sowing by March 31. Under this initiative, farmers cultivating early cotton on five acres or more would receive cash assistance of Rs 25,000.

The registration process for farmers opting for early cotton sowing was ongoing and a verification form would be prepared to inspect the cultivated areas, he added.

The Secretary also commended the role of field formations in ensuring the success of this campaign and expressed satisfaction over the ongoing efforts.

CM praises police for killing dacoits

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has commended the Punjab Police for successfully eliminating two dangerous dacoits, including Shah Mir alias Meera Kosh, who were involved in the martyrdom of 12 police officers in Katcha area.

Expressing her appreciation, the CM acknowledged the bravery and dedication of the police force in their fight against crime. She also extended her best wishes to Punjab Police for continued success in their mission to eradicate criminals and ensure peace in the province.

IGP Punjab chairs meeting on traffic matters

Lahore: A follow-up meeting on traffic matters was held under the chairmanship of Inspector General of Police Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar.

Additional IG Traffic Mirza Faran Baig, DIG Operations Punjab Waqas Nazir and SSP Headquarters Traffic Punjab Syed Ghazanfar Ali Shah were present in the meeting while all RPOs, DPOs, CTOs and District Traffic Officers participated through video link.

The meeting followed up on the decisions of the previous meeting to improve traffic flow, road safety and implementation of laws. IG Punjab instructed CTOs and DTOs to take concrete steps in coordination with the concerned DPOs to improve traffic management. Traffic officers gave a briefing on the selection of roads to ensure 100 percent compliance with traffic laws. Punjab Police spokesperson said that the CTOs and DTOs reiterated their commitment to bring about a clear improvement in the driving licensing rate in the next one month. IG Punjab directed the officers to ensure full implementation of traffic rules across the province including Lahore, under the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, improve road infrastructure, increase the driving licensing rate and the number of students in training schools.

Nation celebrates Pakistan Day with zeal, leaders reaffirm commitment to progress

Lahore: The nation celebrated Pakistan Day with great enthusiasm on Sunday, marking the anniversary of the historic Lahore Resolution adopted on March 23, 1940 - a milestone that paved the way for the creation of an independent homeland for Muslims of the Subcontinent.

The day began with a 21-gun salute in the provincial capital, followed by a change of guard ceremony at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal, where the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) assumed duties from the Pakistan Rangers.

In Islamabad, President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and senior civil and military leadership attended the Pakistan Day parade at Aiwan-e-Sadr, reaffirming their commitment to the country's sovereignty and progress.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif termed March 23 a defining moment in South Asian history, recalling how visionary Muslim leaders, under the guidance of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, stood united with an unwavering resolve to establish a sovereign state where Muslims could live with dignity, freedom, and self-respect. Pakistan is blessed with immense potential. With the right policies, dedicated efforts, and national unity, the country can achieve economic prosperity, uphold social justice, and secure its rightful place on the global stage.

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz extended heartfelt congratulations to the nation, paying tribute to the founding leaders and the sacrifices of martyrs. She highlighted that Pakistan holds the unique distinction of being the first nuclear power in the Islamic world and stressed the importance of reaffirming the commitment to the nation's sanctity and security.

In her Pakistan Day message, CM Maryam Nawaz said, "March 23 serves as a reminder of the golden objectives behind the creation of Pakistan. By the grace of Allah Almighty, Pakistan was established and will remain prosperous forever." She urged the nation to uphold the principles of unity, faith, and discipline, pledging efforts to reduce poverty, ensure social equality, and protect the underprivileged.

The celebrations across the country echoed a collective commitment to a progressive and prosperous Pakistan.

Light show at Minar-e-Pakistan marks Pakistan Day celebrations

Lahore: In a spectacular tribute to the historic Pakistan Resolution of 1940, Minar-e-Pakistan was illuminated in a breathtaking display of green and white lights, marking the country's largest laser light show.

The event, held last night on the directive of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, transformed the iconic monument into a glowing symbol of national pride and unity.

Minar-e-Pakistan, the site where the Lahore Resolution was passed, dazzled as projections of the national flag, crescent moon, and star appeared on its towering structure. The stunning display of white and green laser lights adorned the night sky, while the monument's intricate architectural design was beautifully accentuated through the play of lights.

Thousands of spectators gathered to witness the mesmerizing laser light show. The rotating beams of light around Minar-e-Pakistan created a captivating visual experience, while a dazzling display of twinkling stars, formed using laser technology, left viewers spellbound.

Beyond Minar-e-Pakistan, the celebration extended across Lahore, as iconic landmarks-including the Royal Fort, Lahore Museum, Punjab Assembly, and GPO-were also illuminated in the theme of the national flag, adding to the grandeur of the occasion.

Citizens expressed their admiration for Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz's initiative, praising the government's efforts to make Pakistan Day celebrations more memorable.