Nation celebrates Independence Day

ISLAMABAD: The nation is celebrating Independence Day today (Friday) with traditional fervor and enthusiasm pledging afresh to make the country a true Islamic welfare state as envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The day dawned with 31 gun salute in the federal capital and 21 gun salute at the provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered for the prosperity, integrity and solidarity of the country, unity of the Muslim Ummah and the success of the long drawn struggle of the Kashmiris after Fajr prayers.

It is a public holiday day throughout the country.

The main ceremony of Independence Day was held at the convention center in Islamabad.

President Mamnoon Hussain, who was the chief guest on the occasion, along with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif hoisted the national flag.

The three services chiefs and the federal ministers attended the ceremony.

Impressive change of guards ceremonies were held at mausoleums of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal.

Smartly turned-out contingent of Pakistan Navy Cadets assumed guard duty at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi while Pakistan Army 2-Baloch Regiment took over the charge from Punjab Rangers at the mausoleums of Allama Iqbal.

Flag hoisting ceremonies will also be held at the provincial capitals and district headquarters besides other important national institutions.

A host of events, including seminars, conferences, lectures, debates, speech contests, exhibitions, quiz competitions, stage dramas and Mushairas have been arranged by different organizations in connection with the day.

Meanwhile, all major public and private buildings, roads and avenues have been illuminated and decorated with national flags, portraits of the national leaders, banners and buntings to give a festive look.