The concept of “Aik Qaum” (One Nation) embodies the unity, collective will, and shared responsibility of every citizen of Pakistan in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. Defending the sovereignty of a country goes beyond just military strength; it involves the entire nation standing united as one. In Pakistan, sovereignty is not the sole responsibility of the armed forces or the government—it is a collective duty shared by every individual, institution, and group that identifies as Pakistani.

Unity as the Core of Sovereignty

Pakistan’s strength lies in its diversity—its people come from various ethnicities, languages, and cultures, yet they are bound by the common identity of being Pakistani. This diversity, when unified under the banner of “Aik Qaum”, becomes the true force that defends and upholds the sovereignty of the country.

Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, emphasized Unity, Faith, and Discipline as the guiding principles for the nation. In today’s world, these principles remain as relevant as ever. By standing as “Aik Qaum,” the people of Pakistan can collectively counter any external threats, internal challenges, or ideological battles that may undermine the nation’s integrity.

1. The Role of the Armed Forces and Security Institutions

While the Pakistan Armed Forces are the physical defenders of the country’s territorial integrity, their strength comes from the support they receive from the nation. As “Aik Qaum,” the people of Pakistan proudly stand behind their military, providing unwavering moral and emotional support. The army, navy, air force, and security agencies, including the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), work tirelessly to defend the borders, skies, and seas from external threats.

However, the armed forces are not alone in this mission. Citizens, civil society, and government institutions are equally vital in supporting these defense efforts by fostering national unity and solidarity. When every individual sees themselves as part of the collective defense of the nation, the country becomes stronger.

2. Sovereignty in the Face of Internal Challenges

Sovereignty isn’t just threatened by external forces. Pakistan has, at times, faced internal challenges such as sectarianism, political instability, and economic hardships that have tested the fabric of national unity. However, when Pakistanis rise above their differences and work toward the common good, they become a resilient force capable of defending the country’s sovereignty from within.

As “Aik Qaum,” Pakistanis can overcome internal divisions by promoting tolerance, justice, and harmony. Defending sovereignty also means ensuring that the values of peace, democracy, and social justice are upheld within the country. Only when the people are united internally can they effectively defend the nation from external threats.

3. Civic Responsibility: A Duty of Every Pakistani

Defending the sovereignty of Pakistan isn’t limited to soldiers on the battlefield; it is also the duty of every citizen. Civic responsibility plays a crucial role in maintaining national integrity. This includes:

• Participating in the Democratic Process: Voting in elections, staying informed about national policies, and holding leaders accountable are vital in ensuring that Pakistan remains a strong and sovereign state. As “Aik Qaum,” citizens must engage actively in the country’s political system to strengthen democratic governance.
• Countering Misinformation: In the age of information warfare and fifth-generation warfare, misinformation, and disinformation can erode national unity and undermine sovereignty. By being responsible citizens, verifying information, and promoting accurate narratives, Pakistanis defend the nation’s sovereignty against psychological and ideological warfare.
• Supporting National Causes: Whether it’s contributing to national development, supporting Pakistan’s armed forces, or participating in social welfare, every citizen has a role to play. From students to professionals, from farmers to business leaders—each individual’s contributions strengthen the fabric of the nation.

4. Youth and the Future of Pakistan’s Sovereignty

Pakistan is blessed with a youthful population, full of energy, creativity, and potential. The youth, as the future of Pakistan, hold a significant role in defending the nation’s sovereignty. Their participation in nation-building, education, technology, and innovation will help Pakistan face modern challenges with confidence and competence.

Programs like National Digital Cadet Corps in schools and colleges can inspire the younger generation to take an active interest in the defense and technological advancement of the country. Through education and civic engagement, young Pakistanis can carry forward the mission of “Aik Qaum” to protect and strengthen the nation’s sovereignty for generations to come.

5. Economic Sovereignty and National Unity

A truly sovereign state is also economically independent. By promoting economic growth, creating jobs, and encouraging local industry, Pakistan can reduce its reliance on external forces and strengthen its national resilience. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and other infrastructure projects are examples of how Pakistan is taking steps toward economic sovereignty. However, it is the collective effort of every Pakistani—whether as a laborer, entrepreneur, or policy-maker—that will turn economic sovereignty into a reality.

When the people work as “Aik Qaum,” they contribute to the country’s economic progress, which in turn enhances Pakistan’s sovereignty on the global stage.

6. Cultural and Ideological Sovereignty

Cultural identity and ideological sovereignty are also important pillars in defending Pakistan’s overall sovereignty. Pakistan’s rich history, values, and traditions must be preserved and promoted. As “Aik Qaum,” the nation must resist external cultural and ideological influences that could erode its core values.

By fostering patriotism, promoting national heritage, and celebrating Islamic values alongside tolerance and inclusivity, Pakistan can ensure that its sovereignty extends beyond borders to the hearts and minds of its people.

Conclusion

The defense of Pakistan’s sovereignty as “Aik Qaum” is not just the responsibility of the military or the government, but a shared responsibility among all Pakistanis. From the armed forces and intelligence agencies to the everyday citizen, everyone has a role to play in ensuring that the country remains strong, united, and free from external and internal threats.

As one united nation, Pakistan can overcome any challenge, secure its borders, uphold its values, and ensure a prosperous future. The spirit of “Aik Qaum” represents the essence of national unity and the unwavering commitment of the people to defend the sovereignty of their beloved homeland, Pakistan. Pakistan Zindabad!

During his recent visit to Pakistan, H.E Mr Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan was briefed on the combat capabilities and versatile employment options of JF-17 BLOCK-III fighter aircraft. Pursuant to President Aliyev’s visit and on request of Government of Azerbaijan, Pakistan deployed PAF contingent at Baku to participate in ADEX-2024 showcasing the aerial prowess and static display of Pride of Pakistan JF-17 Thunder Block-III.

During deployment, JF-17 carried out Air to Air Refuelling from PAF Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft deploying in a single hop to Baku, Azerbaijan, demonstrating long haul capability and reach of the PAF’s fighter jet.

President Ilham Aliyev visited the static display of JF-17 BLOCK-III and later witnessed an enthralling aerial demonstration of JF-17 Thunder, showcasing the agility and maneuverability of the fighter jet alongside the professional competence of PAF pilots.

JF-17 Thunder Block-III is an AESA Radar and Long Range BVR equipped 4.5 generation Multi-Role fighter aircraft which is capable of undertaking wide array of combat missions providing contemporary airpower employment options thus strenthening the National Security Paradigm of Azerbaijan.

President of Azerbaijan expressed that the support extended by Pakistan would go a long way in consolidating the existing military cooperation between Pakistan and Azerbaijan, fostering closer defence collaboration and strengthening the warm brotherly ties between the two nations.

Rawalpindi – September 26, 2024

No PR-282/2024-ISPR

Atta Shad: The Giant Literary Figure

Literature has always played a great role in preserving and sustaining the culture, tradition, civilization, and lifestyle of the people. It is about the taste of life. Literary figures are the icons of literature who produce and reproduce pieces of stuff and give it life. They are the most profound and kind figures of society. So, today we will meet with the literary giant of Balochistan, Atta Shad.

Early life

Atta Shad is considered to be the forerunner of modern Balochi poetry, Shad was also a noted researcher and a critic. Shad was born as Mohammad Ishaq, in a carpenter’s family in the Kech District of Balochistan, during the year 1939. He got his education from Balochistan.

As a Poet

The lively man started his poetic journey during the late fifties, under the pen name of Atta Shad. Shad used poetry to present the world solely through a subjective outlook. His poetry is heavily dotted with imagery and artistic expressions. Hence, his work draws upon raw emotions, evoking moods and ideas. Besides, Shad’s observant and sensitive nature allowed him to take inspiration from the locales of his province. One can notice a multitude of metaphors in his works referring to the weather, topographical diversity, and natural beauty of Balochistan.

Whereas, the trailblazing poet disregarded the norms of his times and carved a path of his own. During his era, the Baloch literary scene was divided into two main groups. First were the purists, who were of the opinion that the Balochi language should be limited to the Western dialect only, which was used in the regions of Siestan and Makran. According to them, any other dialect ought to be shunned. Second were the progressives, who were less concerned with the technicalities of the language and insisted on concentrating upon the political and economic notions discussed in the poetry.

However, Shad distanced himself from such a divide and refused to be an adherent of either of the thoughts. Instead, he developed his own manner of poetry. In the beginning, Shad took inspiration from Faiz Ahmad Faiz’s way of writing, but soon his personal style emerged. Another vital feature of his style of writing is the inclusion of different dialects of the Balochi language in his works. Such a practice was initially discouraged by the traditional poets of that period.

However, with the passage of time, Atta Shad, with his flavorful poetry, gained a respectable rank among his peers. That is why his poetry surpasses the conventional manner of being limited to a single region. Western romantic poets such as Shelly, T.S. Elliot, and Coleridge also significantly inspired Shad. Most likely that is the reason why some of his Balochi poetry oozes with romanticism. He was also among the pioneers of free verse in Balochi poetry. For such an act, he was oft-times deemed rebellious.

His Urdu Poetry

Atta Shad also penned down poems in the Urdu language. He added a unique layer to his Urdu poetry by infusing Balochi axioms into his writings. One may find references of famous Balochi fables and romantic legends such as “Hani o Shay Mureed” and “Lori” in his works. Contrastingly, while deliberating on the Baloch locales, he did not turn a blind eye to the atrocities borne by the province over the years. Some of his work was also influenced by the political and social developments that took place around him.

However, instead of taking on a descriptive tone to explore the socio-political issues, the poet chose to discuss such solemn matters in a rather enchanting manner. As a result, his writings are still capable of evoking the required reactions among his readers. It is interesting to know that although he penned down poems in both Urdu and Balochi languages. But he published only Urdu poetry books during his lifetime.

His collections of Balochi poetry were published after his demise. “Barfaag” and “Singaab” are the book titles of his Urdu poetry anthologies, while his well-known Balochi works include “Shap Sahar Andem” and “Rochgir”.

As a Prose writer

Although Atta Shad is primarily known for his works in the field of poetry, he also delved into prose and delivered some exceptional pieces. However, his stint in essay and article writing remained somewhat limited. Nevertheless, his prose writings are regarded as valuable contributions to Balochi literature.

His Versatility

Apart from his contributions in poetry and literature, the maestro continued to serve the State of Pakistan in various capacities during his lifespan. He held a total of thirteen high-profile positions at numerous government departments ranging from the departments of archaeology, and information to the departments of forests, and public relations. Moreover, Shad also worked for Radio Pakistan during the sixties. He wrote various plays for Pakistan Television. He represented the Balochi language in various countries across the world, such as Australia, China, Iran, United States, United Kingdom, Singapore, and Turkey.

His winning Awards

In recognition of his role in poetry in Urdu and Balochi languages, Sitara e Imtiaz and Presidential Pride of Performance were awarded to him. Several educational institutions have been constructed in his name as a tribute to his services to literature including Atta Shad English Language Institute and Atta Shad Academy, Turbat.

Moreover, some community places have also been named after him namely, Atta Shad Auditorium, Idara-e-Saqafat-e-Balochistan in Quetta, and Atta Shad Park in Turbat.

Passed Away

On February 13, 1997, Atta Shad left this world for his heavenly abode. He is buried in the Qasi graveyard of Quetta, Balochistan. Shad’s poetic works continue to assist as a connection between Balochi and Urdu poetry. It is not wrong to say that Atta Shad was a man ahead of his time. His genius was discovered much later than when it should have been. Another vital feature of his style of writing is the inclusion of different dialects of the Balochi language in his works.