Civilian Award Ceremony Held in Islamabad

A Prestigious award ceremony recognizing outstanding national service across multiple sectors was held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, where Asif Ali Zardari granted some of the country’s highest civilian honors on distinguished personalities from public service, sports, literature, democracy and National Defense.

The ceremony in Islamabad brought together senior officials, dignitaries and family members of award recipients as the President presented awards to individuals acknowledged for their contributions to Pakistan in their respective fields.

Former well known cricket captain Shahid Afridi was honoured with the Hilal-i-Imtiaz for his distinguished contribution to sports.

Renowned mountaineer Shehroze Kashif was also awarded the Hilal-i-Imtiaz, with the award received by his mother on his behalf during the ceremony.

Federal Minister Owais Leghari received the Hilal-i-Imtiaz for his role in reforms and initiatives in Pakistan’s energy sector, Privatization Adviser Muhammad Ali was also awarded the Hilal-i-Imtiaz in recognition of his services in the energy sector and public service.

Several literary and political figures were recognized for their longstanding contributions to democracy, literature and public life.

Veteran politician Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan was retrospectively awarded the Nishan-i-Imtiaz for his services to democracy in Pakistan.

Writer and broadcaster Ata ul Haq Qasmi received the Nishan-i-Imtiaz for his contributions to literature, while late senator and columnist Irfan Siddiqui was awarded the Nishan-i-Imtiaz for services in literature and public affairs.

Celebrated playwright and novelist Asghar Nadeem Syed was presented with the Hilal-i-Imtiaz for his services to literature.

The ceremony also paid tribute to members of Pakistan’s armed forces and police personnel for acts of courage and sacrifice in the line of duty.

Constable Alam Zeb received the same honor posthumously for sacrificing his life for the nation.

Constable Hafeezullah was recognized for his bravery in preventing terrorists from advancing during the attack on Police Lines Bannu, earning national recognition during the ceremony.

Soldier Azhar Mahmood received the Hilal-i-Shujaat in recognition of extraordinary bravery. The same honor was posthumously awarded to soldier Shah Wali Khan for sacrificing his life in defense of the country.

Assistant Sub-Inspector Ijaz Khan, who was martyred in the line of duty, was also awarded the Hilal-i-Shujaat for his distinguished services.

President Asif Ali Zardari concluded civilians who honor and sacrifice for Pakistan will be our Hero always.