By Asghar Ali Mubarak
Pakistani people, filled with joy and pride on Youm-e-Takbir, paid tribute to the country’s civil and military leadership, armed forces, scientists and engineers for making Pakistan’s defence invincible. As the nation marked 27 years since becoming a nuclear power, Youm-e-Takbir was celebrated with patriotic fervor and national enthusiasm. The day began with Quran recitations in mosques and prayers for Pakistan’s safety and sovereignty. Religious scholars led special gatherings, offering prayers for the country’s progress and prosperity. They remarked that 28 May stands as a defining moment in Pakistan’s history—a day when the nation emerged stronger and more secure, and when the collective pride of its people soared higher than ever.
On 28 May 1998, Pakistan restored the balance of power in the region by conducting six nuclear tests in response to India’s five. The call of “Allah o Akbar” echoed from the mountains of Chagai as Pakistan emerged as the world’s seventh nuclear power and the first in the Islamic world. Youm-e-Takbir was marked across the country with special events honoring the guardians of the homeland. Rallies and ceremonies took place in cities large and small, including Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the nation on Youm-e-Takbir, paying tribute to the architects of Pakistan’s nuclear program. He reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to the country’s freedom and sovereignty, noting that the spirit of victory on this day continues to strengthen the resolve and pride of the nation.
The Prime Minister said that by the grace and mercy of Allah, Pakistan emerged victorious in the conflict from May 6 to 10, overcoming the war imposed by India. He recalled that on 28 May 1998, India challenged Pakistan’s security, defence and sovereignty by carrying out five nuclear tests. In response, Nawaz Sharif made Pakistan a nuclear power with six explosions, reflecting the aspirations and interests of the nation. Shahbaz Sharif noted that Nawaz Sharif disregarded economic sanctions, pressure and threats, securing the country’s geographical borders forever.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the nation, former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, and the scientists and engineers who made immense sacrifices for the nuclear program. He also honored the Pakistani Armed Forces, national institutions and the architects who contributed to this achievement, adding his gratitude to the armed forces for fully protecting the country’s nuclear assets. He described Youm-e-Takbir as a day to reaffirm that there will be no compromise on the unity, freedom and sovereignty of the nation. On the occasion, the armed forces, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and the service chiefs extended their congratulations to the people.
The Chief Minister of Punjab congratulated the Pakistani nation and the Muslim Ummah, saying that even after 27 years, the nation remains proud, and that no enemy would dare cast a covetous eye on Pakistan’s land. By the grace and mercy of Allah, Pakistan has been honored as the first Muslim nuclear power in the world. He added that the foundation for the victory of May 10 was laid on 28 May 1998. Maryam Nawaz reflected that the echo of the Takbir raised in the mountains of Chagai on that day still resonates across the homeland, and the nation remains grateful to the leader of the Pakistan Muslim League (N), Muhammad Nawaz Sharif.
On Youm-e-Takbir, the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission reaffirmed its commitment to the peaceful use of nuclear technology. The commission highlighted that 28 May is a day to celebrate Pakistan’s nuclear status, alongside significant progress in the peaceful application of nuclear science in health, energy and agriculture. According to the PAEC, 20 cancer hospitals nationwide provide modern diagnostic and treatment facilities, benefiting around 80 percent of the country’s cancer patients. The announcement also noted that six nuclear power plants generate 3,530 megawatts of affordable and environmentally friendly electricity. The Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit-1 set a national record by generating electricity continuously for 400 days.
Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit-5, currently under construction, is expected to generate 1,200 megawatts of electricity once completed. Four agricultural centers are supporting food security by developing 159 special crop varieties. The Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology in Faisalabad is producing naturally colored cotton and has been recognized as a supporting center by the International Atomic Energy Agency. PIAS University and other educational institutions are providing education that meets international standards. The announcement emphasized that the peaceful use of nuclear technology will continue to play a vital role in promoting sustainable development.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, while congratulating the nation on Youm-e-Takbir, said that Pakistan’s nuclear tests on 28 May 1998 sent a clear message to the world that the country is always ready to respond decisively to any enemy’s aggression. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued special messages on Youm-e-Takbir, saying that the nation’s joy in victory has only grown stronger. The President reiterated his commitment to safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, describing the acquisition of nuclear power as a wise decision for maintaining peace. Pakistan’s nuclear capability remains a guarantee of peace, ensuring the nation’s sovereignty and security. In his message, President Zardari extended heartfelt greetings to the people, recalling how on 28 May Pakistan demonstrated its nuclear strength and achieved strategic defence power.
(The writer is a senior journalist covering various beats, can be reached at news@metro-morning.com)
