On Restoration of Murree G.P.O. November 04, 2015 (2015-07)

Murree General Post Office (GPO) is one of the most prominent historical landmarks of Pakistan's popular hilly summer town. It is deeply woven into the sociocultural milieu of the town and is considered to be the most frequented spot for tourists and visitors of all ages. Sitting majestically at a vantage point, it overlooks the famed bustling mall road of Murree.

The Murree Post Office was established in 1867. However the Post Office was built at the current location in 1904 on the land measuring 0.55 acres that was purchased from the Rajah of Kashmir state. In the British Raj the Post Office was the pivot of communications between the Murree and the garrison town of Rawalpindi, as a horse coach would exchange the mail on daily basis well into the twentieth century. The horse coach drivers were a class of men apart, who through storm & rain, torrents & hill slides, hail & snow fearlessly carried His Majisty's mails often at the risk of their lives. The Gazetter of District Rawalpindi (1893-94) noted that the Murree Post Office was a combined Post and Telegraph Office and offered telegraphic, money order and savings bank services. It was later upgraded to Head Post Office, which expanded its accounting jurisdiction to Abbottabad and Muzaffarabad. It also served as mail transit office for sub Post Offices of Hazara & Azad Kashmir. Murree Post Office also established the first ever Philatelic and tourist information in 1975. In 1983 it was upgraded to class one General Post Office under the charge of a Gazetted Postmaster.

The iconic historic GPO building has undergone numerous structural changes since the British originally built it. In 1970 the facade of the GPO was drastically altered while undergoing reconstruction and renovation. The construction of high-rise buildings in its vicinity further deteriorated the environment due to the thoughtless visual intrusions.

Restoration of Murree GPO is the part of an initiative of Government of Pakistan to preserve Murree as an heritage hill station. Under this initiative, the Prime Minister of Pakistan approved a special grant for the reconstruction of Murree GPO to its original form. Urban management unit, planning and development department, Government of punjab provided the technical assistance for the project. The restored GPO will house a national Postal museum, a cafe shop and the Post Office.

On Restoration of Murree GPO, a commemorative postage stamp of Rs.8/- denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on November 4, 2015.

Pakistan Academy of Letters Golden Jubilee. April 15th, 2026 (2026-04)

Established in 1976 as an autonomous organization under the National Heritage and Culture Division, Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) is a national institution dedicated to the promotion and publication of literature in Pakistani languages, as well as to the intellectual and financial support of writers. The Academy functions under a Board of Govermors comprising representative writers from across the country and various Pakistani languages. In addition to its headquarters in islamabad, the Academy operates five regional offices in Lahore, Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, and Multan, which play an active role in organizing literary activities and maintaining liaison with writers nationwide.

This year, Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Over the past five decades, it has established itself as a dynamic and multifaceted national mattution contributing significantly to the promotion of Pakistani iterature and languages. During this period, PAL has published more than 600 books, including creative, research-based, and translated works. It has also actively promoted translations of international literature into Urdu and other Pakistani languages, as wel as translations of Pakistani literature into world languages. For the promotion of literature, PAL, regularly publishes its quarterly joumal Adabiyat, along with journals in Pakistani languages. To promote literature produced in English in Pakistan, as well as English translations of Pakistani literature, a high-quality illary yournal titled Pakistani Literature is published. Additionally, an online edition titled Adabiyat Intemational is also available.

Through its Translation Bureau (Darul Tarjuma), PAL translates selected works of world Sternsturs inte Untu and other Pakistani languages, and introduces selected works of Pakistani literature in world languages. For this purposes, lateral translation projects are also being carried out under Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with literary and cultural institutions of various countries.

PAL also organizes local national and international literary events on diverse academic and literary themes, including international conferences, seminars, and mushairas For the training and encouragement of emerging writers, PAL, conducts residency programs, literary festivals, exchange programs, creative

workshops, and informal intellectual gatherings such as "Chai, Baatai'n aur Kitabal'n", Under the Academy's Studio interviews with prominent writers, recordings of literary events and audiobooks are produced and disseminated through its digital platforms.

Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) has also made notable contributions to the promotion of children's literature, including special publications, translations, journals such as Adabiyät Atfäl, and conferences

In recogriition of literary excellence, PAL has established a "Hall of Fame" at its head office, Islamabad, where the contributions of prominent Pakistani weillers and poets are preserved. Furthermore, to safeguard literary hentage, PAL, established a Literary Museum of 74 Pakistani Languages in 2025, where information related to Pakistani languages and their literalwe will be preserved in digital, audio, and video formats.

The welfare of writers remains one of PAL's core priorities. For this purpose, financial assistance and monthly stipends are provided to deserving writers, while institutions working for the promotion of literature are also supported, PAL, also advises the government on matters related to national languages and literature, and nominates writers for civil awards

Each year, Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) confers National Literary Awards on 22 outstanding books across ten Pakistani languages. In addition, the prestigious Kamal-i-funn Award is presented to distinguished weilers in recognition of their lifetime achievements.

On the eve of Pakistan Academy of Letters Golden Jubilee Pakistan Post Is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.30/- each denomination on April 18 2026.

100 Years of Urdu in Turkey. October 12, 2015 (2015-06)

The year 2015 is of special importance as it marks the centenary of Urdu in Turkey. It was exactly 100 years ago that the instruction of Urdu language and literature formally commenced in Turkey. Having passed through many phases over the past century, this process has contributed immensely to the advancement of Urdu in Turkey on the one hand, and enriched the relationship between the Turkish and Pakistani nations on the other hand.

Urdu language is indeed a strong reflection of the eternal bonds between the two nations. The word 'Urdu' itself is derived from the Turkish language. Experts estimate that there are about 6,000 words common to Urdu and Turkish languages.

According to scholars of Urdu language and literature, it was in 1915 that the instruction of Urdu first started at the Darul Funoon (the Faculty of Edebiyat) at the Istanbul University, and Abdul Jabbar Khairi was appointed as professor of Urdu language.

Subsequently, especially following the independence of Pakistan in 1947, a number of initiatives were taken to promote Urdu studies in Turkey. These efforts picked up further momentum in the 1960s and 1970s with the establishment of Urdu/Pakistan Studies chairs at the Ankara University and Istanbul University. Currently, three Turkish Universities - Ankara University, Istanbul University, and Selcuk University (Konya) - have functioning Urdu Departments.

Over the years, extensive and invaluable research has been conducted on the works of luminaries of Urdu poetry and prose - including Amir Khusro, Mir, Ghalib, Hali, Azad, Sir Syed, Iqbal, Hashar, Yildirim, and Manto. Of special importance is the wide-ranging research done on the literary and philosophical works of the national poet of Pakistan, Allama Muhammad Iqbal including through translations, commentaries and scholarly monographs. Seminal works by scholars in Turkey have, among others, focused on Iqbal's spiritual connection with Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi as well as on the similarities of thought between Iqbal and Mehmet Akif Ersoy, the eminent Turkish poet who also composed Turkey's national anthem. Currently, Turkish scholars are focusing on contemporary Urdu poets and prose-writers and gradually introducing their works in Turkey as well.

A large number of Turkish academics and scholars have contributed to the promotion of Urdu language and literature in Turkey. While it is not possible to name all of them, no account of Urdu in Turkey would be complete without mentioning the services of stalwarts like Prof. Zafar Hasan Aibak, Prof. Ali Nihat Tarian, Dr. Abdul Kadir Kara Han, Dr. Mehmet Onder, Dr. Shaukat Bolu, Dr. Erkan Turkmen, Dr. Selma Beneli, Dr. Gulserin Halici, Dr. Halil Toker, Dr. Asuman Belen, and Dr. Celal Soydan.

Similarly, those who have played a key role in introducing and promoting Urdu in Turkey, besides the Khairi brothers in the second decade of the previous century, include Ambassador of Pakistan Mian Bashir Ahmad, Tariq Farooqui, Dr. Hanif Fauq. Dr. A.S. Ibadat Barelvi, Dr. Ghulam Hussain Zulfiqar, Dr. Nisar Ahmad Asrar, Dr. Ahmad Bakhtiar Ashraf, Dr. Dr. Anwar Ahmad, and Dr. Furqan Hameed.

Over the past several decades, the Government of Pakistan has made its own contributory efforts for the promotion of Urdu in Turkey. These includes establishment of Urdu and Pakistan Studies Chairs, posting of scholars, provision of books and teaching materials, and support for mutual collaboration between relevant Universities. Specific measures are underway to upgrade these efforts and further advance this important work in the coming years.

The credit for celebrating 100 years of Urdu studies in Turkey in a befitting manner goes to the Istanbul University, acknowledged internationally as a premier institution of higher learning. Among other things, the University has organized an international symposium from 12-14 October 2015, with participation of a large number of Urdu scholars from Pakistan as well as from several other countries. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality has lent valuable support to this initiative. Prof. Dr. Halil Toker, the Head of Urdu Department, Edebiyat Faculty, at the Istanbul University, has played an instrumental role in organizing these celebrations and in overall endeavours to promote the cause of Urdu.

It is equally fitting that the Government of Pakistan is commemorating the centenary of Urdu language in Turkey with the issuance of a special postage stamp. This would not only serve to increase greater awareness of Urdu and Pakistan Studies in Turkey but would also help further accentuate the cultural dimension of the special relationship existing between Pakistan and Turkey.

Indeed, the Pakistan-Turkey relationship remains unique in inter-state relations marked as it is by deep mutual trust and understanding and ever-growing cooperation. Successive generations have worked assiduously to nurture these historic ties embedded in indissoluble bonds of common faith, shared history, and cultural and civilizational links. No wonder that Pakistan and Turkey are often described as being, 'Two States, One Nation. This new milestone in the shared history of the two countries, and its special commemoration during 2015, brings the two peoples ever closer.

On 100 Years of Urdu in Turkey, a commemorative postage stamp of Rs. 10/-denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on October 12, 2015.

Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Cadet College Kohat, October 10, 2015 (2015-5)

Cadet College Kohat is Public boarding school established in 1965 with an aim an to provide quality education to the students of the erst while West Pakistan. The college is designed for imparting knowledge to students aged between 12-18 for classes 8th to 12th standard. Over the past 50 years, Cadet College Kohat has earned a reputation for being the best educational institute in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for producing well-groomed students who have made their mark in various strata of our society. The College has a long list of distinguished 'Kohatians', as the Alumni of the college are referred to, who have excelled in all walks of life including military and civil bureaucracy, politics, academia, science and technology. The educational governance modal of the College has urged the Government to establish other colleges on similar lines.

College Campus and Facilities:- The institute is spread over an area of 144 acres and houses a beautiful Academic Block, six houses for boarding students, student messes, libraries, sports playgrounds and residential quarters for the faculty. The Academic Block known as Amir Muhammad Khan Block, and the six student houses are named after great personalities of our country; Jinnah, Iqbal, Ayub, Khushal, Rustam and Munawar.

Khursheed Digital Library was established to honor the services of Ex-Principal Mirza Khursheed Anwar Baig in recognition of his services to the college. Ajmal Gymnasium named after Ex-Principal Baig(R) Ajmal Khattak has been established to provide students facilities with indoor activities. The College also has a Riding Club, six basketball courts. football and hockey grounds, squash courts and a cricket stadium.

Academic Excellence:- Since its inception in 1965, Kohatians have established and maintained the tradition of flinching top positions in Board examinations of 10th and 12th grade. They have the unique honor of achieving top scores even when there was a single combined board for the entire province, N.W.F.P (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa). Previously, Cadet College Kohat was affiliated with Peshawar Board and its students have been competing against notable sister institutions while grabbing top-most positions in examinations. Currently CCK is affiliated with Kohat Board and remains the foremost institution to achieve excellent grades.

Many Kohatians have been nominated for exchange programs sponsored by United State Education Foundation Pakistan, Aus Awards, Fulbright and Chevening programs for pursuing their higher studies abroad. They have established a reputation for themselves as hardworking, organized and disciplined students during their studies even after leaving Cadet College. Kohatians have also attended notable institutions of the country including Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), National University of Science & Technology (NUST), Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute (GIKI) and Agha Khan Medical College etc. Many Kohatians have also studies from well-known Universities of the world including Harvard, Duke and LSE etc.

A number of Kohatians have also been recipients of Sword of Honour; President's Medals and achieved various appointments during military académies. All of this truly reflects the hard work and efforts put in by the faculty and the structure of program designed for students during their five year stay at Cadet College Kohat.

Co-Curricular Activities:- Co-Curricular activities have proven to be beneficial in building and strengthening healthy minds and bodies. Such activities help students develop a set of moral and ethical values, develop social competency and contribute to developing good citizens. They enable students to learn useful new skills from their chosen activity, and in integrating these activities into their everyday school lives, they learn how to effectively manage time, think critically, and work together as a team.

The College hosts a plethora of annual competitions including Urdu and English Declamation, Essay writing, Qirat and Naat Khawani, Photography, Science Innovations, Computer Programming and Riding etc. College sports fixtures with other sister institutions like Military College Jhelum, PAF College Sargodha, Abbottabad Public School, PAF College Lower Topa and Army Burn Hall College, Abbottabad have been a regular feature since its inception. Overall, students' participation in co-curricular activities has resulted in improvement in their academics, discipline, goal-setting, teamwork, accountability and responsibility.

Notable Alumni:- Cadet College Kohat's singular focus on building character and devotion to duty shines through in producing success stories in almost every sphere of human activity. Some notables include Ex-Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Asif Sandila, Lt Gen (R) Sabahat Hussain Ex-Corps Commander Multan and Chairman POF, Vice Admiral (R) Tehseen Ullah, Ahmed Rasul Bangash Ex-Additional Auditor General of Pakistan, Faheem Ullah Khattak, Ex-Accountant General, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ihsan Ghani Director General National Police Bureau and Ex-Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ikram Ghani Member Federal Board of Revenue, Inam Ghani Director Federal Investigation Agency, Hamid Ali Khan Ex-Chairman NATCA, Faridullah Khan Federal Secretary/Chairman Pakistan Tobacco Board, Maj. General Salahuddin Commandant C.M.H.

Ex-Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Engr. Shaukatullah, Senator Mohsin Aziz, Senator Shibli Faraz, Ex-Finance Minister (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) Humayun Khan are also alumni of the College.

Maj. General Javed Sultan Shaheed and Malik Saad Shaheed (CCPO Peshawar) are prominent Kohatians who laid down their lives in safeguarding their homeland. Moreover, Kohatians' contributions in the ongoing war on terror have been widely acknowledge and many of them accepted Shahadat while fighting the insurgents during Operation Rah-e-Rasat and Zarb-e-Azab.

On Golden Jubilee Celebrations of Cadet College Kohat, a commemorative postage stamp of Rs.8/- denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on October 10, 2015.

On the Eve of Defence Day Golden Jubilee Celebrations. September 07, 2015. (2015-04)

1. Pakistan Air Force is known for her true professionalism and leadership traits. Over the years, PAF has always shown firm resolve whenever it comes to safeguarding the aerial integrity of Pakistan or in need of the hour. In September, 1965 PAF spared no stone unturned in proving her mettle and prowess to the world by showing their supremacy from the very first day which resulted in an unforgettable saga of chivalry in the eighteen days war.

a. This stamp indicates PAF's cargo aircraft converted into a bomber during 1965 war. The painting in the background shows a Hercules on its bombing run over Indian artillery along BRB canal on the night of 21st September. The stamp also depicts Golden Jubilee logo along with gallantry awards won by our heroes and logo of Pakistan Air Force.

b. This stamp reminisce the historic Kalaikunda strike by PAF on 7th of September 1965. The formation of 5 F-86 aircraft from Dhaka attacked enemy airfield in a pitch dark night and gave enemy a sharp lesson by destroying number of Canberra bombers and Hunter fighters. The stamp also depicts Golden Jubilee logo along with gallantry awards won by our heroes and logo of Pakistan Air Force.

c. This stamp points towards one of the triple attacks on Jamnagar airfield. PAF did ground strikes on 3 enemy airfields and destroyed the enemy aircraft on ground. The Painting in the background depicts the professionalism displayed by PAF pilots in precise bombing over the enemy airfields. The stamp also depicts Golden Jubilee logo along with gallantry awards won by our heroes and logo of Pakistan Air Force.

d. This stamp shows the last moments of a hero, a valiant air warrior, Squadron Leader Sarfraz Rafiqui. Rafiqui along with his three companions led a strike at Halwara airfield where they encountered more than ten Indian aircraft. Rafiqui shot down Indian Hunters and later his guns got jammed. Determined to go on, Rafiqui continued with the mission and embraced Shahadat after declaring the strike successful. The stamp also depicts Golden Jubilee logo along with gallantry awards won by our heroes and logo of Pakistan Air Force.

e This stamp displays portraits of those 7 heroes of PAF who embraced Shahadat in the line of duty. Each one of these gallantry warriors fought to their last breath and got Shahadat after achieving the said objective. The nation salutes these Heroes and they will always remain a pride of the nation in general and of Pakistan Air Force in particular. The stamp also depicts Golden Jubilee logo along with gallantry awards won by our heroes and logo of Pakistan Air Force.

f. This stamp indicates complete fleet of fighter aircraft in Pakistan Air Force through ages. Pakistan Air Force evolved at a very fast pace and never let enemy at peace. From F-86 and F-104s to Mirages, F-16s and JF-17s, Pakistan Air Force always remained a symbol of terror for the enemy and pride for the nation. The stamp also depicts Golden Jubilee logo along with gallantry awards won by our heroes and logo of Pakistan Air Force.

On the Eve Of Defence Day Golden Jubilee Celebrations, a set of six commemorative postage stamps of Rs. 10/-denomination of each is being issued by Pakistan Post on September 7, 2015.

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.