Islamabad: Jhelum, the “Land of Martyrs and Veterans,” hosted a significant Independence Day celebration on August 14, 2025, marking Pakistan’s 78th year of freedom. Minister of State for Railways and Finance, Bilal Azhar Kayani, led the festivities, hoisting the national flag at Akram Shaheed Park, accompanied by a bugle salute.
The observance commenced with Kayani laying a wreath and offering prayers at the memorial of Major Akram Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider). Joined by Advisor to the Chief Minister of Punjab for Health, General (R) Azhar Kayani, local officials, students, and residents, the Minister also participated in the unveiling of an exceptionally long Pakistani flag.
In his speech, Kayani hailed the nation’s 78th Independence Day, linking it to the successful outcome of the “Ma’arka-e-Haq” (rightful struggle). He attributed this liberty to the sacrifices of martyrs and veterans, acknowledging the contributions of elders, women, and the leaders of the Pakistan Movement, particularly Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Kayani highlighted August 14, 1947, and May 10, 2025, as pivotal dates representing independence and its preservation. He commended the Pakistan Armed Forces, led by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, General Sahir Shamshad, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Babar, and Admiral Naveed Ashraf, for their role in thwarting perceived adversaries.
Turning to the economy, the Minister declared victory against default and inflation. He urged the country to focus on economic progress, citing Moody’s recent upgrade of Pakistan’s rating, alongside similar improvements from Fitch and Standard and Poor’s, as positive indicators. He credited Quaid Nawaz Sharif and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for these gains and pledged to strengthen economic integrity.
The event, attended by dignitaries including National Assembly member Chaudhry Farrukh Altaf, featured symbolic gestures like cake cutting, a minute of siren sounding, and the release of pigeons. Kayani planted a sapling and students performed patriotic songs and tableaux.
Paying tribute to fallen soldiers from Jhelum, Captain Hasnain Akhtar, Sepoy Mirza Jawad, and Police Constable Haider Ali Hussain, Kayani described Jhelum as the “land of lions and eagles.” He concluded by emphasizing the region’s commitment to freedom, symbolized by the Pakistani flags adorning its graveyards.