Pakistan Day Civil Awards: Who are the recipients?

Every year on Pakistan Day, the nation comes together to recognize the contributions of outstanding individuals who have made significant impacts in their respective fields. This year, President Asif Ali Zardari conferred Pakistan Day civil awards upon 69 distinguished personalities, both Pakistani and foreign nationals, in acknowledgment of their services to the country. The investiture ceremony took place at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, attended by federal ministers, senators, parliamentarians, diplomats, media representatives, and members of civil society.

A Tradition of Recognition

Pakistan Day civil awards are among the highest honors bestowed by the government, celebrating individuals who excel in fields such as health, education, literature, journalism, public service, research, diplomacy, and the economy. These awards not only highlight the achievements of the recipients but also inspire others to contribute positively to society.

Understanding Pakistan’s Civil Awards

Pakistan’s civil awards system comprises several categories, each recognizing different levels of achievement and service:

1. Nishan-e-Pakistan – The highest civilian award, granted for meritorious contribution to international relations, global peace, and service to Pakistan.
2. Nishan-e-Imtiaz – Awarded for distinguished services in various fields of human endeavor.
3. Hilal-e-Pakistan – A prestigious award recognizing notable contributions in international relations.
4. Hilal-e-Imtiaz – Honors excellence in the fields of science, art, literature, and public service.
5. Sitara-e-Pakistan – Acknowledges significant contributions to Pakistan’s global standing.
6. Sitara-e-Shujaat – Recognizes acts of bravery and valor.
7. Sitara-e-Imtiaz – Awarded for exceptional service in science, art, and literature.
8. Tamgha-e-Imtiaz – Given for meritorious contributions in various fields.
9. Tamgha-e-Shujaat – Honors courage and gallantry.
10. Sitara-i-Quaid-e-Azam & Tamgha-i-Quaid-e-Azam – Bestowed upon individuals for outstanding service in different domains.
11. Presidential Prize of Performance Award – Recognizes notable achievements in arts and sciences.

Eligibility and Selection Criteria

To be eligible for a civil award, nominees must have demonstrated exceptional contributions to their field or the nation. The process of selection includes:

• Nominations by government institutions, professional bodies, or the general public.
• Review by a government-appointed committee.
• Finally, the approval from President of Pakistan
• Awards are traditionally conferred on Pakistan Day, March 23rd.

Key Recipients of the 2024 Civil Awards

This year’s recipients include renowned figures across various domains. Some of the key honorees include:

• Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto (posthumous) – Awarded Nishan-i-Pakistan, received by his daughter, Sanam Bhutto.
• Air Marshal (Retd) Raja Shahid Hamid (late) – Awarded Nishan-i-Imtiaz for his contributions to the Pakistan Air Force.
• Sultan Ali Akbar Allana – Recognized with Nishan-i-Khidmat for his services.
• Ali Haider Gilani, Hussain Daud, Javed Jabbar, and Aamir Hafeez Ibrahim – Honored with Hilal-i-Imtiaz for their excellence in public service, business, and media.
• Jimmy Engineer – The celebrated artist and philanthropist received Hilal-i-Imtiaz.
• Sana Hashwani and Safinaz Muneer – The pioneering fashion designers behind Sana Safinaz were awarded Sitara-i-Imtiaz for their contributions to Pakistan’s fashion industry.

Recognizing Bravery and Sacrifice

Many awards were given posthumously to individuals who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty:

• SP Muhammad Ejaz Khan, DSP Allama Iqbal, DSP Sardar Hussain, and Constables Irshad Ali and Jahanzeb – Awarded Hilal-i-Shujaat posthumously for their bravery.
• Capt. (Retd) Hamza Anjum and Malik Sabz Ali – Received Sitara-i-Shujaat for their heroism.
• Shamsher Ali, Fakhar Abbas, and Aftab Alam – Awarded Tamgha-i-Shujaat for their courage.

Contributions from Foreign Nationals

Pakistan also acknowledged foreign nationals for their contributions:

• Haydar Qurbonov and Dr. Christine Brunhilde – Awarded Sitara-i-Quaid-e-Azam for fostering diplomatic ties.
• Agostino Da Polenza and Professor Valeria Piacentini – Honored with Tamgha-i-Pakistan for their research and contributions to Pakistani studies.
• Dr. Xinmin Liu – Received Tamgha-i-Quaid-e-Azam for his services in the field of medical research.

Why These Awards Matter

The civil awards not only honor excellence but also reinforce the importance of hard work, dedication, and service to the nation. By recognizing the contributions of these individuals, Pakistan sets an example for future generations, encouraging them to aspire to greatness in their respective fields.

The 2024 Pakistan Day Civil Awards ceremony was a moment of pride for the country, celebrating those who have gone above and beyond in serving Pakistan. Whether through bravery, innovation, public service, or philanthropy, each recipient has played a role in shaping a better future for the nation. As the country moves forward, these awards serve as a reminder that commitment to excellence and service is always recognized and rewarded.