International Literacy Day (2026-14A)

Size of Stamp	40.5 x 40.5 mm
Size of Print	36.4 x 36.4 mm
Number of stamps in a Sheet	(4x2)86 Stamps (Four sets)
Perforations	13 C Elliptical
Denomination:	Rs. 30/- Each Stamp
Date of Issue	September 08, 2026
Colors	CMYK
Printing Technology	Lithography Offset
Paper	100 GSM Water Mark Gummed Paper
Gum	PVA
Quantity of Stamp	0.03 Million
Design	Abu Obaidah Ayyaz
Printer	Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, Karachi

International Literacy Day, observed annually on 8 September, was proclaimed by UNESCO in 1966 to emphasize the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of sustainable development. The day serves as a global reminder that literacy is not merely the ability to read and write; it is a powerful instrument for empowering individuals, reducing poverty, promoting equality, strengthening democratic values, and fostering peace and prosperity.

Literacy is the foundation upon which individuals build knowledge, confidence, and opportunity. It enables people to make informed decisions, improve their livelihoods, participate meaningfully in civic and economic life, and contribute positively to their communities. In today's rapidly evolving world, literacy extends beyond traditional reading and writing skills to include digital literacy, critical thinking, communication, and lifelong learning competencies that are essential for personal growth and national progress.

For Pakistan, literacy is central to nation-building and socioeconomic development. An educated and literate population forms the backbone of a prosperous, innovative, and resilient nation. Literacy empowers citizens to realize their full potential, supports inclusive economic growth, strengthens democratic institutions, promotes social harmony, and contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4: Ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Recognizing the transformative power of education, Pakistan remains committed to expanding access to quality learning opportunities for every child, youth, and adult. National efforts continue to focus on improving foundational literacy and numeracy, strengthening public education, modernizing curricula, enhancing teacher development, promoting digital learning, and ensuring that education reaches underserved. And marginalized communities.

Special emphasis is placed on empowering women and girls through education. Educating girls is one of the most effective investments a nation can make. Literate and educated women contribute significantly to healthier families, stronger communities, higher economic productivity, and greater social cohesion. By ensuring equal educational opportunities for girls, Pakistan advances gender equality and lays the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous society.

Alongside the formal education system, non-formal education has emerged as an essential pathway for reaching children, adolescents, and adults who remain outside conventional schooling. Flexible learning opportunities, community-based schools, accelerated learning programmers, and adult literacy initiatives provide second chances for learners to acquire foundational skills and continue their educational journey. These initiatives play a vital role in reducing educational disparities and extending the benefits of literacy to disadvantaged populations.

The Government of Pakistan has undertaken a range of initiatives to make education more accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of learners. Investments in educational infrastructure, technology-enabled learning, school support programmes, teacher capacity development, community participation, and innovative learning. environments reflect the country's commitment to building a modem and equitable education system. Digital learning platforms, information technology facilities, robotics laboratories, and skills development programmers are equipping young people with the knowledge and competencies required to thrive in the twenty-first century.

Institutions such as the National Education Foundation (NEF), Basic Education Community Schools (BECS), the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD), and various provincial education initiatives continue to expand educational opportunities, particularly in remote, rural, and underserved areas. Scholarship programmes, education voucher schemes, and community partnerships further support children from disadvantaged backgrounds in accessing and completing their education.

International Literacy Day also recognizes that achieving universal literacy requires collective responsibility. Governments, educators, parents, communities, civil society organizations, development partners, the private sector, and the media all have important roles to play in fostering a culture of reading, learning, and lifelong education. Creating an environment where every individual has the opportunity to learn strengthens not only families and communities but the nation as a whole.

Commemorative postage stamps serve as enduring symbols of a nation's values, achievements, and aspirations. By issuing a commemorative postage stamp on the occasion of International Literacy Day, the Pakistan Post Office Department pays tribute to the transformative power of literacy and renews the nation's commitment to ensuring that knowledge remains accessible to all. The stamp symbolizes hope, enlightenment, inclusion, and opportunity, reflecting the belief that education is the most powerful means of empowering individuals and building stronger communities.

As Pakistan continues its journey toward universal literacy and quality education, the collective commitment of government institutions, educational organizations, teachers, families, and communities remains essential. Every child who learns to read, every young person who gains new skills, and every adult who acquires literacy contributes to a more enlightened, productive, and prosperous nation.

International Literacy Day reminds us that literacy is far more than an educational milestone it is the foundation of human dignity, empowerment, innovation, and sustainable development. By investing in literacy today, Pakistan invests in a brighter future where every citizen has the opportunity to learn, grow, contribute, and realize their full potential. Through shared commitment and collective action, literacy will continue to unlock opportunities, transform lives, and strengthen the foundations of a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Pakistan.

Concept/Design:- The stamps presents International Literacy Day through two complementary visual concepts: The red graphic is based on United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No. 4 Quality Education, highlighting the global commitment to inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. On the other hand, the illustrated design portrays a young visually impaired schoolgirl engaged in learning within a rural classroom, emphasizing the importance of literacy for every child.

On International Literacy Day, Pakistan Post is issuing a set of two Commemorative Postage Stamps of Rs.30/-each denomination on September 8, 2026.

25th Anniversary of Cadet College Palandri. (2026-15)

The establishment of Cadet College Palandri represents the culmination of centuries of historical continuity, martial tradition, and intellectual aspirations rooted in Sudhnoti District, Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Palandri, the district headquarters, holds a distinguished place in the history of the Poonch region, tracing its origins to the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries when the Sudhan tribe settled in the area. Though historical narratives vary regarding their precise origins, the Sudhans are widely believed to be of Pashtun descent, linked to the Sadozai lineage, and are recognized for their strong sense of honour, independence, and resistance to foreign domination.

The political and social foundations of Sudhnoti were laid by Nawab Jassi Khan, a legendary warrior statesman whose rule established Sudhan authority in the region. His legacy of bravery, justice, and leadership shaped the collective identity of the tribe. This tradition of resistance continued through figures such as Shams Khan, who led the historic Sudhan Revolt of 1837 against the Sikh Empire and Dogra rule, and Sardar Ibrahim Khan, a pivotal leader of the Kashmir freedom movement and the first President of Azad Kashmir. Over generations, the Sudhans earned recognition as a martial race, producing soldiers who served with distinction in the British Indian Army and. later in the armed forces of Pakistan.

This rich historical and martial legacy, combined with the region's immense contributions to the Kashmir struggle, formed the ideological foundation for establishing a cadet college in Palandri. The vision was translated into reality through the untiring efforts of two eminent personalities: Late Colonel (Retd) Muhammad Naqi Khan and General Muhammad Aziz Khan. Lt Col Nagi Khan, a proud son of Palandri and descendant of the renowned freedom leader Colonel Khan Muhammad Khan, played a decisive role by personally inviting the then Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, to Palandri. At the helipad, he presented war veterans of the region and formally requested the establishment of a cadet college. Acknowledging the historic sacrifices and strategic importance of the area, the request was immediately approved and announced.

The formal decision to establish Cadet College Palandri was made in 1973 by the Government of Pakistan, alongside similar institutions in Larkana and Mastung. In 1976, an initial allocation of Rs. 1.525 million was approved for surveys, soil testing, and architectural planning. The following year, 60 acres of land were acquired at a cost of Rs. 2.434 million, and the project design was entrusted to M/S Allied Engineering Consultants, Lahore. Despite early progress, financial constraints led to a temporary suspension of the project.

The revival came in 1987, when Lt Col (Retd) Muhammad Naqi Khan was appointed as Project Director. His determination and administrative vision restored momentum to the initiative, while General Muhammad Aziz Khan utilized his institutional influence to ensure progress through various governmental channels. Their efforts were strongly complemented by the support of the then Prime Minister of the Azad Government of the State of Jammu and Kashmir, Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhary. On January 22, 1990, he laid the foundation stone of the college, marking a historic milestone in the educational development of Azad Kashmir.

Following sustained development, the Board of Governors approved the commissioning of the college on July 9, 1998, and Cadet College Palandri was formally inaugurated on September 15, 1998. With the commencement of academic activities, a long-cherished aspiration of the people of Sudhnoti was finally realized.

Today, Cadet College Palandri stands as the first and premier cadet college of Azad Kashmir, symbolizing a bridge between centuries-old heritage and modern education. The college operates on a house system comprising Jinnah House, Iqbal House, Khan House, Sher House, and Kerailvi House, each reflecting national ideals and the legacy of freedom. Guided by its vision to impart quality education and prepare youth for national security and defense, and inspired by its motto, "Serve with Valour," the institution emphasizes academic excellence, discipline, leadership, physical fitness, and character building.

Beyond academics, Cadet College Palandri has revitalized the socio-economic stature of the region by generating employment, supporting local livelihoods, and offering opportunities to students from all provinces of Pakistan, overseas Pakistanis, and Kashmiris from both sides of the Line of Control. We owe this enduring institution to the foresight and dedication of its founding fathers, and we solemnly pledge to uphold their vision by nurturing generations of disciplined, enlightened, and valiant citizens in the service of Pakistan.

On 25th Anniversary of Cadet College Palandri, Pakistan Post is issuing a set of three Commemorative Postage Stamps of Rs.30/- each denomination on September 15, 2026.

Defence Day. (2026-14)

Size of Stamp	50.5 x 35 mm
Size of Print	50.5 x 35 mm
Number of stamps in a Sheet	(6x3) 18 Stamps
Perforations	13 C
Denomination:	Rs. 65/-
Date of Issue	September 06, 2026
Colors	CMYK
Printing Technology	Lithography Offset
Paper	100 GSM Water Mark Gummed Paper
Gum	PVA
Quantity of Stamp	0.05 Million
Design	Supplied by Customer
Printer	Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, Karachi

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INTRODUCTION:- Defence Day of Pakistan is observed annually on 6th September to honour the courage, determination, and sacrifices of the Pakistan Armed Forces and the citizens who defended the country during the 1965 war. The day symbolizes national unity, resilience, and the commitment to safeguarding Pakistan's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. It also serves as an opportunity to recognize the dedication of those who continue to serve the nation with honour and professionalism.

ORIGIN:- The significance of 6th September dates back to 1965, when Pakistan faced a major military conflict. During this period, the Armed Forces displayed remarkable bravery, discipline, and determination in defending the country's borders. Since then, Defence Day has become an

important national observance, commemorating not only the events of 1965 but also the ongoing contributions of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and other security organizations in maintaining national security, assisting during natural disasters, and participating in international peacekeeping missions.

IMPORTANCE OF DEFENCE DAY AND SACRIFICES MADE:- Defence Day is a reminder of the values of courage, sacrifice, patriotism, and national solidarity. It pays tribute to the martyrs (Shuhada) who laid down their lives in the line of duty and acknowledges the unwavering commitment of serving personnel. The occasion also highlights the importance of unity among citizens and encourages every Pakistani to contribute positively towards the country's peace, progress, and stablity.

NATIONAL OBSERVANCE:- Across Pakistan, Defence Day is marked with special ceremonies, wreath-laying at memorials educational programs, exhibitions, and public events. Tributes are paid to the armed forces and the families of martyrs, while national media broadcasts documentaries and special programs reflecting the country's military history and achievements. These activities strengthen the spirit of patriotism and remind, the youngergeneration of the importance of national service and collective responsibility.

CONCLUSION:- Defence Day remains one of Pakistan's most significant national occasions, reflecting the nation's gratitude for the sacrifices and dedication of its Armed Forces. It serves as a reminder that peace, security, and national development are achieved through courage, vigilance, unity, and commitment. By remembering the heroes of the past and appreciating those who continue to serve, Defence Day inspires present and future generations to uphold the values of integrity, patriotism, and service to the nation.

On Defence Day, Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.65/-each denomination on September 6, 2026.

Collector's Directory (Lahore, Pakistan)

Name:- Wahid Zia

Year Of Birth:- 1968

WhatsApp Number:- +92-321-9427812

Facebook ID:- paknetmag

Website:- www.pkphilately.com

Email:- info@pkphilately.com

Residence:- Lahore, Pakistan

Collecting Interest: Worldwide thematic stamps (Pakistani Flagon stamps, Mohenjo-Daro, RCD, Minar-e-Pakistan, Pakistan Armed Forces, and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah)

Collector Background/About:- Born in 1968, Wahid Zia formed an intense interest in stamps in a very early age. In 1975 he started his philately journey by collecting used stamps. He removed stamps from the letters received by friends and family to make a small stamp collection of his own. After some time, a friend told him about a shop named Regal Stamps Company. From than onwards that shop became his go to place when it came to buying stamps. As time went on and he got to meet many other young collectors like himself, and he kept on making his collection bigger by using all his pocket money.

In 1985, at 17 years old, he learnt about the Pakistan Youth Collector Stamps Association and their stamp exhibitions. He ended up participating in one of their exhibits in 1989, where he showcased his collection of worldwide personalities, by using hinges to stick them on A4 sized graph paper, that won him the 1st Prize. That ended up being a very big reason for encouragement for him that made him what he is today.