President Honours Heroes of Marka-e-Haq

Pakistan paid tribute to its civilian and military heroes in a grand Marka-e-Haq awards ceremony at the President House in Islamabad on Thursday. The event recognized exceptional services and outstanding performance during the defining moments of Marka-e-Haq, showcasing the nation’s gratitude to those who led with courage, skill, and commitment.

A Ceremony of Honour

The investiture ceremony brought together top leaders, senior officials, and dignitaries. President Asif Ali Zardari personally conferred the awards on the distinguished recipients. The atmosphere was marked by national pride and deep appreciation for those who had served the country in its critical hour.

High-ranking political leaders, including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, received the Nishan-e-Imtiaz. They were recognized for their strategic leadership and tireless efforts during the campaign.

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah Khan were also decorated with the prestigious honour.

Military Leadership Recognized

The ceremony placed a strong focus on military leadership that had demonstrated exceptional resolve during Marka-e-Haq.

Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, received the Hilal-e-Jurat for his decisive leadership and steadfast courage in the face of significant challenges. His role was highlighted as a driving force behind the success of critical operations.

Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, was awarded the Nishan-e-Imtiaz for his strategic guidance and operational oversight during the campaign.

Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu earned the Hilal-e-Jurat for leading Pakistan’s aerial missions with remarkable precision and bravery. His command ensured dominance in the skies during the conflict.

Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf was also decorated with the Nishan-e-Imtiaz for his leadership in securing maritime defense.

Diplomatic Frontline Appreciated

The awards extended beyond the battlefield, recognizing those who played a pivotal role in representing Pakistan internationally. Members of the Prime Minister’s diplomatic team were commended for effectively communicating the country’s stance on the global stage during Marka-e-Haq.

Hilal-e-Imtiaz was awarded to Minister for Climate Change Musadik Masood Malik, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Syed Tariq Fatemi, Senator Sherry Rehman, Senator Faisal Sabzwari, Senator Bushra Anjum, former Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar, Engineer Khurram Dastgir Khan, Umar Farooq, and former Ambassador Jalil Abbas Jilani.

Their efforts in international diplomacy helped shape favorable narratives and strengthen Pakistan’s position during critical negotiations.

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Civilian Excellence Recognized

Several civilian officials were honoured for their exceptional services in governance, law, and national coordination during the operation.

Hilal-e-Imtiaz was conferred on Minister for Economic Affairs Division Ahad Khan Cheema, Prime Minister’s Adviser Dr Syed Tauqir Hussain Shah, Attorney General Mansoor Usman Awan, Dr Fawad Assadullah Khan, and Lt General (retd) Muhammad Saeed.

Their contributions ensured that the domestic front remained stable, organized, and supportive of the national objectives during the crisis.

Air Force Heroes Awarded

The Pakistan Air Force’s combat pilots received recognition for their unmatched bravery and precision strikes that inflicted heavy losses on the enemy.

The Sitara-e-Jurat was awarded to Wing Commanders Bilal Raza and Hammad Ibne Masood for their daring missions under high-risk conditions. Squadron Leaders Muhammad Yousaf Khan, Muhammad Usama Ishfaq, Muhammad Hassan Anees, Talal Hassan, Fida Muhammad Khan, and Muhammad Ashhad also received the Sitara-e-Jurat.

Their professionalism and courage were praised as exemplary, setting high standards for the nation’s defense forces.

A United Acknowledgment of Service

The Marka-e-Haq awards ceremony stood as a moment of unity, where the contributions of political leaders, military commanders, diplomats, and civilian officials were equally celebrated. Each recipient represented a different facet of Pakistan’s strength — from battlefield victories to strategic diplomacy.

The event served as a reminder that national success in challenging times comes from combined efforts across all fronts. The President’s recognition of these individuals was both a tribute to their achievements and an inspiration for future service to the country.