Pakistan’s military history marks September 6 as an unforgettable day. Every year, this day is commemorated as Defense Day to honor the invincible defense performance and sacrifices of the Pakistan Armed Forces during the 1965 war with India. Such days hold extraordinary significance in the history of nations, serving to inform the younger generation of their historical achievements and instill a sense of national pride.
Vibrant nations celebrate these days as a renewal of their commitment to their country, pledging that the sacrifices made for the nation’s honor will continue unabated. It is vowed that the sons of the soil will never let any harm come to their country’s dignity and glory. In today’s world, the demands of national defense have changed. Today, protecting a nation’s ideological boundaries is as crucial as safeguarding its geographical frontiers. While Pakistan’s geographical borders are well-guarded by the world’s bravest and most capable army, the real threat now lies at its ideological borders. The ideological foundation of Pakistan is Islam, and hostile forces are trying to weaken this foundation to undermine Pakistan both defensively and economically. If we meet the following demands of national defense, Pakistan’s defense will become impregnable.
National Unity
The foremost requirement of national defense in the current scenario is to foster a sense of national unity among all communities living in Pakistan, eradicating linguistic, provincial, and religious prejudices to form a society where all people demonstrate unity and solidarity. When faced with adversity, the entire nation must set aside differences and stand as a solid wall against any enemy. Internal unity ensures that no external threat can harm us. The easiest way to achieve this is by eliminating feelings of deprivation among our people so that enemies cannot exploit our disadvantaged communities. Once we unite as a single, cohesive nation, Pakistan’s defense will become invincible.
Economic Stability
The second most important demand for national defense in the current situation is the establishment of a powerful economic system free from imperialist dominance. Only an economically strong country can be defensively strong. There is now a need to develop an independent and fair economic system in the country, where all classes have equal opportunities for economic advancement, and the nation’s economic resources are distributed equitably among all segments of society. Similarly, all regions should be given equal opportunities for economic growth, and a comprehensive plan should be implemented for the development of underprivileged areas. A prosperous economy will render the nation’s defense unassailable.
Political Stability
The strength of Pakistan’s defense lies in political stability. If the supremacy of the constitution is upheld, and the parliament is empowered to make independent decisions and enact laws for the national interest, political stability will ensue, strengthening democratic institutions. Political and social groups will then be able to play their role in the nation’s stability and development. Dictatorial governance creates political instability and fosters undemocratic behaviors. Currently, the defense of the nation requires all political parties to unite on national security issues, fortifying the country against internal and external threats. In 1971, political instability weakened the nation’s defense, resulting in the country’s disintegration. Today, India seeks to exploit provincial and linguistic divisions to destabilize Pakistan politically. In this context, Defense Day urges us to set aside our political differences and unite for national security and progress.
Independent Judiciary
An independent and sovereign judiciary guarantees Pakistan’s impregnable defense. The judiciary is a crucial pillar of any state. To fortify the country’s defense, we must ensure the independence of the judiciary. A free judiciary strengthens the nation’s justice system, fostering a legal environment where the rule of law prevails. By adhering to the constitution in its true spirit, all national institutions will grow stronger, rendering the country’s defense invincible. Defense Day demands that we commit to establishing a transparent justice system through an independent judiciary, which will bolster both our geographical and ideological frontiers, making the defense of our nation unbreakable.
Religious Harmony
Pakistan is currently under threat from both internal and external enemies, who are trying to weaken the nation by spreading religious discord. From its inception, the country has faced sectarian tensions due to these hostile efforts. Defense Day calls on us to set aside all religious differences and unite so that our enemies cannot achieve their nefarious objectives. This day compels us to pledge to live as true Muslims and patriotic Pakistanis, actively participating in the defense of our country to prevent any harm due to religious divisiveness.
Intellectual Guidance of the Nation
National defense requires us to follow the ideology of Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam. Adhering to the principles of our forefathers will make every citizen intellectually aware, freeing them from stagnation and mental slavery, thus enabling the country to progress rapidly. Only through intellectual guidance can the nation’s defense be strengthened. Let us pledge that we will not shy away from any sacrifice for the defense of our nation and remain ever ready to safeguard it. By embracing a progressive mindset, we can propel our country toward swift advancement. Ameen.