Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced that Friday, May 16, will be observed as Youm-e-Tashakur (Day of Gratitude) to honor Pakistan’s firm response to Indian aggression and the successful completion of Operation Bunyan-e-Marsous. However, the government has not officially confirmed whether it will be a public holiday.
The day is intended to express national gratitude to Allah, salute the bravery of Pakistan’s armed forces, and celebrate the nation’s unity and resilience.
The observance will begin with Quran recitations and special prayers after Fajr in mosques across the country. A 31-gun salute will be fired in Islamabad, while 21-gun salutes will take place in all provincial capitals. Ceremonial guard changes are planned at the mausoleums of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal.
Flag-raising ceremonies will be held in federal and provincial capitals, along with floral tributes at memorials for martyrs. Prayer events will also be conducted in honor of the fallen, and official meetings will be arranged with their families as a gesture of national appreciation.
The main Youm-e-Tashakur ceremony will take place Friday night at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad. Prime Minister Sharif will attend as the chief guest, accompanied by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and military leadership. Distinguished personalities, scholars, and representatives from various sectors will also participate, symbolizing unity and national pride.
