Nation marks Pakistan Day with patriotic zeal and zest

Islamabad: The nation is celebrating the 82nd Pakistan Day with zeal and fervor today (March 23), with the joint armed forces parade going on in full swing in the federal capital to exhibit the country’s military prowess and cultural diversities.

Prime Minister Imran Khan, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Naval Chief Admiral Ajmal Khan Niazi, Chairman Joint Chief of Staff Committee General Nadeem Raza, and Defence Minister Pervaiz Khattak is at the venue attending the arms show.

The parade will include contingents of the tri-services, paramilitary forces, and civil armed forces, whereas the troops from Pakistan's friend countries will also participate in the show.

One of the important highlights of the parade will be the fly-past of the newly inducted J-10C fighter jets. The J-10C aircraft, equipped with cutting-edge technology, was inducted into the Pakistan Air Force’s squadron earlier this month.

The commandos of the Special Services Group (SSG) will also demonstrate their skills during the parade.

Another colorful attraction of the event would be the display of floats, representing all four provinces, including Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Meanwhile, the participants of the 48th Session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s (OIC) Council of Foreign Ministers will also attend the Pakistan Day parade on special invitation. This year’s theme is “Shad Rahe Pakistan” (May Pakistan Be Happy) and which is adapted from the words “Markaz e Yaqeen Shad Bad” in our national anthem (Blessed be the citadel of faith).

Moreover, the theme "Shad Rahe Pakistan” is also the title of the latest enthralling national song recently released by the Inter-Services Public. The song is written and sung by lyricist and singer Shuja Haider, with vocalist Yashal Shahid.