ISLAMABAD: On Pakistan Day, President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the nation’s highest civilian awards upon individuals who have made outstanding contributions in various fields, including the late Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and several courageous martyrs.
The prestigious ceremony took place at Aiwan-e-Sadr, attended by key dignitaries such as Senate Chairman Yusuf Raza Gilani, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, First Lady Aseefa Bhutto, and other distinguished personalities.
President Zardari posthumously awarded the Nishan-e-Pakistan, the country’s highest civilian honour, to former Prime Minister and PPP founder Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, recognizing his remarkable service to the nation. His daughter, Sanam Bhutto, accepted the award on his behalf.
Several other individuals were honoured for their contributions across various sectors. Air Marshal (R) Raja Shahid Hameed received the Nishan-e-Imtiaz for his invaluable services, while Sultan Ali Akbar Alana was awarded the Nishan-e-Khidmat for his achievements in the financial sector.
Acts of extraordinary bravery were also recognized, as President Zardari conferred the Hilal-e-Shujaat on police officers who displayed exceptional courage in the line of duty. The posthumous recipients included SP Muhammad Ijaz Khan Shaheed, DSP Allama Iqbal Shaheed, and DSP Sardar Hussain Shaheed, along with Constables Jahanzeb Shaheed, Irshad Ali Shaheed, Additional SHO Adnan Afridi Shaheed, and Sub-Inspector Taimoor Shehzad Shaheed. Additionally, LHC Muhammad Farooq Shaheed and Sepoy Muhammad Asif Shaheed were posthumously honoured for their heroism.
In the field of education, Allah Rakhi Shaheed was recognized with the Hilal-e-Shujaat for her remarkable contributions. Dr. Syed Tauqeer Shah was honoured for his service in the civil sector, while Captain (R) Muhammad Khurram Agha and Syed Ali Haider Gillani received the Hilal-e-Imtiaz for their dedication to public service.
Furthermore, President Zardari awarded the Hilal-e-Imtiaz to Hussain Dawood for his humanitarian efforts and Khawaja Anwar Majeed for his social sector contributions. Professor Dr. Sheriyar and Dr. Zaryab were also recognized for their distinguished achievements in the medical field.
The ceremony highlighted the nation’s appreciation for those who have made significant contributions to Pakistan’s progress and security.
