100 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE MILITARY COLLEGE JHELUM COMMEMORATIVE POSTAGE STAMP MARCH 03, 2025 (2025-8)

Military College Jhelum is one of the oldest academic institutions administered under the patronage of the Pakistan Army. Founded on the 3rd of March 1922 by the Prince of Wales and named King George Royal Indian Military School, it started functioning in September 1925. Later in 1943, it was upgraded to the status of college and assigned the onerous mission of training potential officers for the British Indian Army. With the creation of Pakistan in 1947, the college assumed its distinctive role as the only feeder institution for Pakistan Military Academy. To date, the institution continues to successfully discharge its onerous responsibility of preparing youth for subsequently taking up future leadership roles in the Pakistan Army.

MCJ follows a rigorous academic and military training program. The college provides education from 8th to 12th grade, focusing on both academic excellence and character development. The curriculum includes subjects such as mathematics, science, languages, social sciences and physical education. In addition to academics, MCJ places great emphasis on military training and discipline. Cadets undergo various drills, physical fitness activities and leadership training programs. The college campus is equipped with modern facilities, including classrooms, laboratories, libraries and sports grounds. The cadets live in a structured and disciplined environment, fostering camaraderie and sense of responsibility.

The College has crossed many important landmarks of its history. It celebrated its Silver Jubilee on November 27, 1950; its Golden Jubilee in November 1975; its Diamond Jubilee in November 1986, its Platinum Jubilee on September 15, 1999, and the Centenary of its Foundation Stone Laying on 3 March 2022. The College has served the nation with a spirit of commitment. Its alumni have contributed to the national cause with unwavering devotion. The College Roll of Honour radiates with the names of martyrs, heroes, and senior officers in all echelons of civil and military establishments.

The College has served the nation with a spirit of unwavering commitment, its alumni contributing to the national cause with a steady devotion. Alma mater to many a great soul, the College Roll of Honour is resplendent with the names of myriad martyrs, heroes and leaders of men in all walks of life, particularly the armed forces. Alamgirians have offered their homage to the Nation with 46 lives. Through the college portals have walked 1 Nishan-i-Haider (Maj Muhammad Akram Shaheed, NH), 47 Sitara-i-Jurrat, 3 Tamgha-i-Jurrat, 15 ImtiaziSanad, 4 Victoria Cross and 42 Swords of Honour. The distinguished Alamgirian alumni have made the college proud with more than 100 General Officers including Ex-Chairman Joint Chief of Staff Committee Gen (R) Muhammad Iqbal Khan (late), Ex-Air Chief Marshal (R) Zulfiqar Ali Khan, Ex-Chief of Naval Staff Admiral (R) Abdul Aziz Mirza, Ex- Chief of Naval Staff Admiral (R) Mehmood Ali Dogar, Ex-Vice Chief of Army Staff Gen (R) Muhammad Yousaf Khan, Ex- Chief of Army Staff, Gen (R) Ashfaq Parvez Kiyani, NI (M) and more than 300 Brigadiers.

Apart from numerous high ranking military officials, alumni of Military College Jhelum are upholding the name of the college in various civil institutions as well. A few civil dignitaries include, Maj (R) Qamar Zaman Choudhary Ex-Chairman NAB, Waheed Ahmad Chief Engineer SNGPL, Dr. Asif Hussain Professor at NUST, Ghulam Mushtaq DG CDA, Khalid Mehmood Choudhary GM PTCL, Muhammad Nisar Hayat Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan in Maldives, Omer Riaz Regional Director Benazir Income Support Program, Usman Haider Dogar Vice President UN Mission, Farid Nawaz Ex IG Police, Sultan Hanif DIG Rawalpindi, Fakhar Sultan Regional Police Officer Rawalpindi, Naveed Hassan Director FBR Islamabad and many more.

The faculty of military College Jhelum is highly qualified and eruditely experienced who provide guidance and mentorship to the cadets. The institution maintains a strong commitment to the overall development of its students, preparing them for the challenges of both academic and military life. Moreover, the Military College Jhelum is a renowned military institution that provides a comprehensive education and rigorous military training to young cadets. Through its focus on academic excellence, character development and discipline, it prepares students for leadership roles in the military and instills in them a sense of patriotism and service to the nation.

On the occasion of the completion of 100 Years of operations of Military College Jhelum, a commemorative postage stamp of Rs. 100/-denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on 03rd March, 2025.

YEAR OF PAKISTAN-CHINA FRIENDLY EXCHANGES. August 14, 2015 (2015-03)

Pakistan and China have an enduring, close and time-tested friendship that is unique and unprecedented in modern interstate relations. The Pakistan-China all-weather strategic cooperative partnership is based on mutual trust and understanding, and bilateral relations have always been high on the foreign policy agenda of both countries.

Pakistan and China have declared 2015 as the "Year of Pakistan-China Friendly Exchanges" which will further expand exchanges between Parliamentarians, think-tanks, media, youth, academics and artists of the two countries to make Pakistan-China friendship even more deeply rooted in the hearts of our peoples.

GREAT WALL OF CHINA:- The Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications, construction of which began as early as the 7th century BCE The Great Wall is recognized as one of the modern wonders of the world and attracts visitors from all over the world. Pakistan's contributions toward the Government of China's efforts to renovate one section of the Great Wall were commemorated at a ceremony held in March 1989.

KARAKORUM HIGHWAY:- The Karakorum Highway (KKH) connects Pakistan and China across the Himalayan mountain range at the Khunjerab Pass. Construction of the highway began in 1959 and was completed in 1979. The KKH is the highest paved international road in the world and is also known as the Friendship Highway. The route of the KKH traces the path of the ancient Silk Road, and serves as a potent symbol of the enduring friendship between Pakistan and China.

SHALIMAR GARDENS:- The Shalimar Gardens are a Mughal-era garden complex in the historic city of Lahore, Pakistan. Construction of the Gardens began in 1641 CE and was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan. The Shalimar Gardens, a classic example of Mughal aesthetics, were included as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981.

To mark 2015 as the Year of Friendly Exchanges between Pakistan and China, a set of five commemorative postage stamps for the denomination of Rs. 10/- is being issued by Pakistan Post on 14th August 2015,

FIRST 100 MW SOLAR PLANT. May 04, 2015 (2015-02)

 

Pakistan has been suffering from an energy shortage for the last two decades. With a steadily growing population and increased economic activity, the demand for energy has been rising and the generated supply has not been able to keep up with the rapid rising demand. Despite policy efforts and development plans, the gap between supply and demand remains in the range of 4000 MW on average, leading to 6-8 hours of load shedding on a daily basis, leaving businesses and homes in the dark. Business, small and large alike have been forced to suspend operations or incur higher costs by employing expensive diesel run generators as back up during load shedding hours.

Pakistan is blessed with an abundance of solar energy and is one of the few regions having on the average 300+ days per annum of sunshine and is considered best solar zone of the world. This gift of God in the shape of solar irradiance has been here since eternity but God has given us the opportunity to harness the same.

In the year 2013, The Government of Punjab, under the vision of Chief Minister Mian M. Shahbaz Sharif, dedicated 10,000 acres of land in Cholistan, near Bahawalpur City, Pakistan, for the purpose of establishing a 1000 MW Solar Park for generation of electricity. This Solar Park is an initiative of Government of the Punjab (GoPb), Pakistan to reduce reliance on fossil fuels in generation of electricity and to overcome the ever expanding gap between energy production and demand. 500 acres of land was allocated to set up the first pilot project.

The Government of the Punjab launched Quaid-e-Azam Solar Power (Pvt.) Ltd to install the first 100 MW PV Plant and act as a role model for the investors in the field of renewable energy and provide an impetus to the aspiring national and international IPPs to follow in the footsteps of QA Solar.

The site allocated is complete with interconnection facilities, access roads, water connection and a clean title to deeds. The EPC contract was awarded to TBEA Xinjiang SunOasis Co. Ltd, a renowned company from China. The Groundbreaking Ceremony of the first ever 100 MW solar PV plant in Cholistan desert near Bahawalpur was held on May 9th, 2014. Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan, accompanied by Shahbaz Sharif, Chief Minister Punjab, unveiled the plaque to establish the foundation of the plant. His Excellency, Mr. Sun Weidong, the ambassador of China to Pakistan, was also present at the venue.

Quaid-e-Azam Solar Power (Pvt.) Ltd has been able to achieve the landmark of launching Solar PV Plant from scratch with the assistance of top notch international consultants and EPC Contractor. Faced by a highly aggressive and challenging timeline, especially the mobilization and deployment of hundreds of foreign consultants/ contractors in a remote area, QA Solarwas fully confident to meet all challenges and achieve the targets on schedule.

In a record span of time, Quaid-e-Azam Solar Power has installed the first ever utility scale, photovoltaic, ground mounted and fixed tilted power plant in Pakistan. Compared to other power generation plants, this power plant will be a source of clean and renewable energy and on the basis of reduction in greenhouse gases emissions; this project has the capability of qualifying for clean development mechanism. In addition to lowering GHG emissions, solar power plant will also lead to reduction in other various atmospheric pollutants, that are discharged in coal powered plants, such as mercury, Sulphur dioxide etc.

The solar park initiative, it is hoped, will bring not only economic activity, but will also provide jobs and a unique set of skills to the inhabitants of the area. This project aims to mark the beginning of the Province's journey towards generation of renewable energy and a cleaner and greener future and pave way for others to join in the mission of fulfilling the country's energy needs for a better world.

On First 100 MW Solar Plant., a commemorative postage stamp of Rs.8- denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on May 4, 2015.

Centenary Celebrations The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (1925-2025). March 4th, 2026. (2026-03)

SALIENT FEATURES

Size of Stamp	44.6 x32.3 mm
Size of Print	44.6 x32.3 mm
Number of stamps in a Sheet	(2x3) 06 Stamps
Perforations	13 C
Denomination:	Rs. 100/-
Colors	CMYK
Printing Technology	Lithography Offset
Paper	100 GSM Water Mark Gummed Paper
Gum	PVA
Quantity of Stamp	0.3 Million (30,000)
Design	Supplied by the Customer
Printer	Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, Karachi

The year 2025 marks a historic milestone in the journey of The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (IUB) as it proudly celebrates its centenary. From its humble beginnings as Jamia Abbasia in 1925 to its present status as a comprehensive public-sector university, IUB has embodied the spirit of resilience, transformation, and service to society.

Origins: Jamia Abbasia (1925) The roots of The Islamia University of Bahawalpur can be traced to Jamia Abbasia, founded in 1925 in the princely state of Bahawalpur. Jamia Abbasia was established as a religious seminary on the pattern of Al-Azhar University, Cairo. Its primary mission was to impart Islamic education, preserve religious scholarship, and provide spiritual guidance to the people of the region. For decades, Jamia Abbasia attracted scholars, theologians, and students from across South Asia, becoming a center of intellectual discourse and religious learning.

Transition to The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (1975) With the merger of Bahawalpur State into Pakistan and the growing demands of a modernizing society, the academic landscape required a broader vision. Recognizing this need, the Government of Punjab upgraded Jamia Abbasia into a full-fledged university in 1975, renaming it The Islamia University of Bahawalpur. This transition was more than a change of name; it was a redefinition of mission. The IUB retained its foundation of moral and spiritual values while embracing modern disciplines such as natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, agriculture, business, and medicine. This transformation signaled the University's role in bridging tradition with modernity. It began to prepare students not only for religious and cultural leadership but also for professional and scientific contributions to Pakistan's development.

Growth and Expansion:- Over the past fifty years as a university, IUB has grown into one of the largest and most dynamic higher education institutions in Pakistan. It has established multiple campuses in Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Liaquatpur, and Rahim Yar Khan, thereby serving the educational needs of a wide geographical area in South Punjab. Today, the University offers more than 300 degree programs, ranging from undergraduate to doctoral levels, across diverse disciplines.

With a faculty strength of around 1,200, the IUB boasts modern laboratories, digital libraries, and research centers that match international standards. This remarkable growth demonstrates the University's unwavering commitment to making higher education accessible to all segments of society, particularly in underserved regions.

Academic Excellence and Research Contributions:- As an institution, IUB has prioritized both quality education and cutting-edge research. The University hosts faculties and institutes in disciplines such as:

Agriculture and Environment addressing the region's agrarian economy and sustainability challenges.

Engineering, Information Technology, and Artificial Intelligence equipping graduates with skills for the digital economy.

Health and Medical Sciences contributing to the healthcare sector through teaching and medical research.

Islamic Studies, Languages, and Social Sciences carrying forward the legacy of Jamia Abbasia in harmony with modern inquiry.

Through national and international collaborations, the University has participated in research projects of global relevance, addressing climate change, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship. Publications from IUB faculty regularly appear in leading indexed journals, reflecting a growing global academic footprint.

Cultural and Regional Impact:- Located in the heart of South Punjab, The IUB has always been more than just a university; it is a cultural anchor for the region. The University has preserved the rich heritage of Bahawalpur, once a princely state known for its palaces, mosques, and traditions of learning. By organizing cultural festivals, conferences, and exhibitions, IUB ensures that the identity of South Punjab is celebrated and shared with the wider world.

Moreover, the University has played a central role in promoting Urdu, Saraiki, and Arabic languages, as well as Islamic scholarship, thereby ensuring that local identity coexists with global relevance. Its alumni have gone on to become leaders in academia, politics, civil services, agriculture, business, and religious affairs, carrying forward the values of service and scholarship.

National Role and Achievements:- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur stands today among the leading universities in Pakistan, recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) for its contributions. It has earned multiple accreditations in professional disciplines, ranked consistently among the country's top public universities, and hosted numerous national and international conferences.

Its research journals, centers of excellence, and academic linkages continue to contribute toward achieving Pakistan's national development goals, particularly in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Furthermore, the University's emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation has nurtured a generation of graduates who are job creators rather than job seekers.

The Centenary Spirit (1925-2025) Celebrating 100 years of knowledge and service is both a moment of pride and a call to future responsibility. The centenary celebrations highlight the University's journey from a small religious seminary to a modern, comprehensive university serving tens of thousands of students.

The Commemorative stamp symbolizes:

1. Heritage:- Honoring Jamia Abbasia and its legacy of faith, scholarship, and learning.

2. Transformation:- capturing the expansion of the institution into a multidisciplinary university.

3. Service reflecting the University's role in advancing education and development in South Punjab and Pakistan.

4. Vision showcasing the University's commitment to global competitiveness and sustainability in its second century.

On the eve of the centenary of The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (1925-2025), Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.100/- each denomination on March 4th, 2026.

Kashmir Solidarity Day. February 5th, 2026. (2026-02)

 

SALIENT FEATURES

Size of Stamp	35 x 50.5 mm
Size of Print	35 x 50.5 mm
Number of stamps in a Sheet	(6x3) 18 Stamps
Perforations	13 C
Denomination:	Rs. 30/-
Colors	CMYK
Printing Technology	Lithography Offset
Paper	100 GSM Water Mark Gummed Paper
Gum	PVA
Quantity of Stamp	0.5 Million (50,000)
Design	Supplied by the Customer
Printer	Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, Karachi

Kashmir Solidarity Day, observed annually on 5 February, reflects Pakistan's enduring commitment to stand with the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their struggle for dignity, justice, and the right to self-determination. The origins of this observance are rooted in a period when the scale of repression in Indian-Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir had drawn national and international concern. The formal initiative to mark this day was first proposed by Qazi Hussain Ahmed, a political leader and former head of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan. In 1990, the call gained decisive national momentum when Mian Nawaz Sharif, then the Chief Minister of Punjab, appealed for a nationwide strike and public mobilisation to protest against the ongoing Indian occupation and to express solidarity with the Kashmiri freedom struggle. The day was subsequently endorsed by major political parties and civil society organisations and was later declared a public holiday, cementing its place as a collective national expression of moral and political support.

The observance serves as a solemn reflection on the grave human rights violations faced by the Kashmiri people under Indian occupation. The region remains among the most militarised zones in the world, where civilians continue to endure excessive use of force, arbitrary detentions, custodial violence, enforced disappearances, and severe restrictions on movement and communication. Independent reports over the years have documented intimidation, demographic engineering efforts, and repeated assaults on fundamental freedoms. These conditions underscore Pakistan's longstanding position that peace, stability, and legitimacy in the region cannot emerge through coercion or the systematic erosion of human dignity.

Across Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the day is marked with extensive public engagement aimed at amplifying Kashmiri voices and reinforcing a unified national stance. Public processions, human chains on routes leading into AJK, special prayers, and community gatherings express solidarity with the Kashmiri people. Government institutions, political parties, religious leaders, and civil society networks organise conferences, seminars, and media programmes that highlight the historical context of the dispute, present documented accounts of ongoing violations, and reaffirm Pakistan's advocacy for a peaceful resolution based on the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Educational institutions host debates and dialogue forums to engage youth in informed reflection on the human rights dimensions of the conflict and the responsibilities of the global community.

Each year, the observance of 5 February renews Pakistan's resolve to continue supporting the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their just struggle. It reinforces a principled national commitment that no durable peace in South Asia can be achieved without acknowledging the rights, sacrifices, and aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Through this day, Pakistan stands firm in upholding the ideals of justice, humanity, and the right of oppressed communities to determine their own future.

On the eve of Kashmir Solidarity Day Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.30/- each denomination on February 5th, 2026.

25th Anniversary of PARCO Mid-Country Refinery, January 28, 2026 (2026-01)

 

SALIENT FEATURES

Size of Stamp	81 x 40.5 mm
Size of Print	81 x 40.5 mm
Number of stamps in a Sheet	5 Stamps
Perforations	13 C
Denomination:	Rs. 30/-
Colors	CMYK
Printing Technology	Lithography Offset
Paper	100 GSM Water Mark Gummed Paper
Gum	PVA
Quantity of Stamp	0.5 Million (50 thousand)
Design	Abu Obaidah Ayyaz & Hasnain Mahmud
Printer	Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, Karachi

The year 2025 marked the 25th anniversary of the commissioning of Pak-Arab Refinery Limited's (PARCO) Mid-Country Refinery (MCR) - a milestone in Pakistan's journey towards energy self-reliance and industrial modernization.

The Foundation of Mid-Country Refinery:- In the early 1990s, Pakistan faced growing energy demand, a widening gap between domestic refining capacity and consumption, and heavy dependence on imported refined petroleum products. Recognizing the strategic necessity of expanding local refining Infrastructure, PARCO a joint venture between the Government of Pakistan and the Emirate of Abu Dhabi undertook the visionary project of establishing a state-of-the-art refinery at Mahmoodkot, District Muzaffargarh.

Commissioned in 2000, the Mid-Country Refinery (MCR) was designed with an initial capacity of 100,000 barrels per day (bpd), making it the largest and most modern refinery in the country at the time. Its location was strategically selected at the crossroads of Pakistan's north-south energy corridors, connecting PARCO's White Oil Pipeline System (WOP) and ensuring efficient supply of refined petroleum products to major consumption centers.

Technological Milestones and Upgradation:- Over its 25-year journey, MCR has evolved from being a national refining asset to a benchmark of operational excellence in South Asia. The refinery's commitment to modernization was reaffirmed in 2020, when its refining capacity was enhanced to 120,000 bpd, alongside the upgrade of fuel specifications to meet international environmental standards.

A defining feature of MCR's operations has been its focus on cleaner fuels and sustainable refining. It was the first refinery in Pakistan to install a Diesel Hydro Desulphurization (DHDS) Plant a facility with a maximum capacity of 26,000 bpd, enabling production of Euro III compliant, low-sulphur diesel. This milestone not only aligned Pakistan's fuel standards with global environmental benchmarks but also contributed to cleaner air and reduced vehicular emissions across the country.

In addition to producing high-quality Diesel, Petrol, Jet Fuel, LPG, Kerosene, Furnace Oil, Sulphur, and Asphalt, the refinery houses an Asphalt Air Blowing Unit (AABU) that manufactures road and industrial grade Asphalt meeting international specifications. The AABU's output has supported national infrastructure development, from highways to Industrial zones, embodying MCR's role in "fueling progress" both literally and figuratively.

Economic and Strategic Significance:- MCR's contribution to Pakistan's economy and energy security has been profound. As a backbone of the country's refining infrastructure, it plays a vital role in reducing dependence on imported refined fuels by processing mainly light and medium crude oils sourced through both domestic and international channels. The refinery's output caters to a substantial share. of the national fuel demand, supplying energy to power industries, transportation networks, and households across the nation.

Moreover, MCR's integration with PARCO's pipeline and storage network has brought unprecedented efficiency and safety to the national oil supply chain. Its operations have reduced road transport of petroleum products, lowering logistics costs and mitigating environmental and safety risks associated with conventional fuel transportation.

The refinery has also been a catalyst for regional development in southern Punjab, dts establishment brought modern infrastructure. Employment opportunities & community development programs to Mahmoodkot and adjoining areas-transforming the region into a hub of industrial activity and contributing to Pakistan's socioeconomic progress.

Conclusion:- As Pakistan stands at the threshold of new energy challenges and opportunities, the 25th anniversary of the Mid-Country Refinery is a moment of pride and reflection. From its commissioning in 2000 to its ongoing modernization, MCR has embodied the nation's quest for self-reliance, innovation, and excellence in the energy sector.

On the eve of 25 Years of PARCO Mid-Country Refinery, Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.30/- each denomination on January 28th, 2026.

75th Anniversary of Pakistan – Sri Lanka Diplomatic Relations, December 25, 2025 (2025-27)

SALIENT FEATURES

Size of Stamp	56 x 35 mm
Size of Print	56 x 33 mm
Number of stamps in a Sheet	(2X5) (10 Stamps)
Perforations	13 C (Elliptical)
Denomination:	Rs. 75/- each
Colors	CMYK
Printing Technology	Lithography Offset
Paper	100 GSM Water Mark Gummed Paper
Gum	PVA
Quantity of Stamp	0.1 Million (100,000)
Design	Mughir Khan
Artwork of FDC by	Abu Obaidah Ayyaz
Printer	Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, Karachi

At the time of Sri Lankan's independence in 1948, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founding father of Pakistan, noted that "Pakistan has the warmest goodwill towards Ceylon, and I am sanguine that the good feelings which exist between our people will be further strengthened as the years roll by and our common interests, and mutual and reciprocal handling of them, will bring us into still closer friendship.

Since establishing official diplomatic ties in 1948, both Pakistan and Sri Lanka have shared cordial diplomatic relations.

Despite geographical and religious barriers, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have always been trusted-partners of each other with historical linkages dating back to the period of Gandhara civilization, from the first to seventh-century AD. In the year 2021, a "Gandhara" documentary was produced by the High Commission of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Sri Lanka with the support of and in coordination with the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs. It takes the viewers on a visual journey along the Gandhara Buddhist heritage sites of Pakistan.

Pakistan-Sri Lanka relationships are rooted in shared cultural ties and diplomatic cooperation. Since Pakistan hosts ancient relics and architecture central to Buddhist heritage, Buddhist-majority Sri Lanka has held regular exhibitions of the "Gandhara Heritage of Pakistan," in the past borrowing the sacred Buddhist relics on the anniversaries of Lord Buddha.

Commemorating 75 years of Pakistan-Sri Lanka diplomatic ties also depicts important Buddhist places of Pakistan-Sri Lanka.

Pakistan side of the stamp:- From Pakistan, the stamp design shows Buddhist ruins of Takht Bhai Heritage Monastery which is a monastic complex, founded in the early 1" century AD, magnificently located on various hilltops ranging in height from 36.6 meters to 152.4 meters, typical of Buddhist sites. The Buddhist Monastery was used continuously until the 7th century AD. Consisting of a collection of buildings, it is the most complete Buddhist monastery in Pakistan. The Tantric monastic complex were used for certain forms of Tantric meditation. Additional structures on the site are believed to have served as residences or meeting halls, or filled secular purposes.

The place is a masterpiece of architecture that is equipped with all kinds of facilities. This huge complex has multiple sections which includes several rooms, conference halls, university areas, meditation cells, residential areas, open courtyards, meeting halls, statues, and buildings adorned with sculptors. The beautiful construction and quiet location makes it stand out from the rest. The mountains and greenery on all sides provide fabulous views. Buddhist monks from all over the world love to visit these places so that they can see the life style education and economics, etc. of the people who lived there thousands of years ago.

Sri Lankan side of the stamp:- Alahana Pirivena Monastery is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. In the 12" century AD and it served as a center for Buddhist education and spiritual practice till date: It features a large image house known as the Vijayothpaya. Inside the monastery, several important Buddhist artifacts have been discovered, including ancient statues, stone inscriptions, and relics. These discoveries have shed light on the rich history and the religious practices of the region during that time. The monastery also houses a sacred Bodhi tree, considered a holy symbol of enlightenment in Buddhism. Visiting Alahana Pirivena Monastery offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of ancient Buddhist architecture, immerse in religious traditions, and learn about the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. The peaceful atmosphere and the serene surroundings make it an ideal place for meditation and contemplation. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Alahana Pirivena Monastery stands as a testament to the rich Buddhist heritage of Sri Lanka and remains a significant place of worship and spirituality. Its cultural and historical value attracts tourists and scholars alike, providing insights into the ancient civilisation of Polonnaruwa.

On the occasion of the 75th Anniversary of Pakistan-Sri Lanka Diplomatic Relations, a set of two Commemorative Postage Stamps of Rs. 75/-denomination each are being issued by Pakistan Post on 25, December 2025.

University of Peshawar Celebrating 75 Years of Academic Excellence, December 10, 2025 (2025-26)

SALIENT FEATURES

Size of Stamp	56 x 35 mm
Size of Print	54 x 33 mm
Number of stamps in a Sheet	(3X5) (15 Stamps)
Perforations	13 C (elliptical)
Denomination:	Rs. 30/-
Colors	CMYK
Printing Technology	Lithography Offset
Paper	100 GSM Water Mark Gummed Paper
Gum	PVA
Quantity of Stamp	0.03 Million (30,000)
Design	Customer
Printer	Pakistan Security Printing Corporation, Karachi

   

Positioned at the threshold of the Khyber Pass, where civilizations have converged and cultures have collided for centuries, the University of Peshawar (UOP) stands as a distinguished emblem of scholarship, resistance, and renewal.

The genesis of the University of Peshawar is inseparable from the vision of Sir Sahibzada Abdul Qayyum Khan, who in 1913 founded Islamia College, an institution that would ultimately become the intellectual cornerstone of the university's foundation.

In 1948, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah visited Islamia College and proclaimed, "Nothing is dearer to my heart than to have a university in the North-West Frontier Province from where rays of learning and culture will spread throughout Central Asia." These words were not mere rhetoric; they constituted a solemn pledge. That pledge was fulfilled on October 30, 1950, when Shaheed-e-Millat Liaqat Ali Khan (the first Prime Minister of Pakistan) laid the foundation stone of the University of Peshawar. Accordingly, University of Peshawar holds the distinction of being the first university established in Pakistan following independence in 1947, preceded only by the University of Punjab and the University of Decca, both founded prior to partition but integrated into Pakistan thereafter.

Over the decades, University of Peshawar has evolved into a comprehensive academic ecosystem, initially including the Khyber Medical and Dental Colleges, the University of Engineering and Technology; and now comprising various academic departments and research centres, Jinnah College for Women, the College of Home Economics, the Khyber Law College, and the Quaid-e-Azam College of Commerce which was established through the financial patronage of Quaid-e-Azam and inaugurated by Maadar-e-Millat Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah.

Throughout its history, the University of Peshawar has functioned more than a centre of higher education; it has served as a crucible of intellectual resistance. From student-led movements to faculty-driven critiques, the university has consistently provided a platform for progressive thought and democratic engagement.

As the oldest public sector university in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, University of Peshawar has played a seminal role in shaping the intellectual contours of the region. Its alumni have gone on to serve as vice-chancellors, educators, policymakers, politicians, scientists, artists, and public intellectuals, both within Pakistan and across the globe.

As the University of Peshawar commemorates its 75th anniversary, it does so not with nostalgia alone but with a renewed commitment to its founding ideals. The celebrations are a tribute to the generations of students and scholars who have passed through its corridors and pathways, each contributing to its legacy of excellence and equity.

This milestone also calls for critical introspection: the university's future hinges on its capacity to harmonize tradition with transformation. As it renews its commitment to progress and purpose, University of Peshawar must continue to cultivate critical inquiry, foster interdisciplinary dialogue, and deepen its engagement with local and global communities and commitments. Whether through expanding its research initiatives, digitizing its archival resources, or advancing inclusive pedagogies, the University of Peshawar possesses the potential to remain a beacon of learning in an increasingly complex world.

In celebrating 75 years of the University of Peshawar, we honour not merely an institution, but a living legacy; a space where history converges with hope, and where every classroom reverberates with the promise of possibility.

On the eve of celebrating 75 years of the University of Peshawar, Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of denomination Rs. 30/-on December 10th, 2025.