The day is observed every year in commemoration of Lahore Resolution adopted on March 23, 1940, when the Muslims of the Indian sub-continent pledged to create an independent homeland, where they could live in accordance with their religious and cultural values. The day will dawn with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in the provincial capitals. Special prayers will be held for the country's progress, integrity and solidarity.
The national flag will be hoisted on important public and private buildings throughout the country and all Pakistani missions abroad. The government has already declared public holiday on Wednesday and all federal and provincial government offices, banks and private offices will remain closed. This year too, the armed forces parade on Pakistan Day has been cancelled owing to security concerns as well as hectic engagement of troops in the North West Frontier areas of the country.
Qirat contests, debate, essay competitions and mushairas will be arranged by different organisations, while television and radio channels would air special programmes on the occasion. As annual event, President confers national awards and medals on outstanding civil and military personalities in recognition of their meritorious services at an investiture ceremony.
Wreaths will also be laid at the mausoleums of Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Seminars and special functions will be organised to pay homage to the Father of the Nation Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and poet philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal.
Speakers will highlight sacrifices rendered by the people for the creation of a separate homeland for the Muslims. Newspapers will bring out supplements to underscore the significance of the day and the ideals of Quaid-i-Azam. Pakistan Navy will also observe the Pakistan Day with traditional zeal and fervour. Special prayers will be offered in all mosques at PN Units after Namaz-e-Fajr.
To pay homage to the Father of the Nation, a wreath-laying ceremony will be held at Mazar-e-Quaid. Senior representatives from three services will lay wreath and offer Fateha. Pakistan Navy ships and units will be decorated and illuminated to mark the day as a great national event.
Critics believe that over six decades ago, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammed Ali Jinnah had led the independence movement that culminated in the establishment of a separate homeland for the Muslims despite resistance by the British rulers and the Hindu Congress. Allama Iqbal's dream was thus redeemed as the Quaid responded to his vision with resolve, commitment, sincerity and devotion.
He virtually fought single handed to carve out Pakistan. According to them, Pakistan Day is an auspicious occasion for the Pakistani nation that calls for evaluation of our failings and achievements to seek guidance for the future. Pakistan has endured many ups and downs in the course of its history over the past six decades.