As the nation commemorates Yaum-e-Pakistan, also known as Pakistan Resolution Day, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the visionary ideals of our founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and the challenges that Pakistan faces in realising his vision.
On this day, we remember the historic Lahore Resolution passed on March 23, 1940, which laid the foundation for the creation of Pakistan. It was a reaffirmation of the Muslim League’s demand for a separate homeland where Muslims could live in accordance with their religious and cultural values. Additionally, March 23 marks the adoption of Pakistan’s first constitution in 1956, signaling the transition of the Dominion of Pakistan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
Quaid-e-Azam’s vision for Pakistan was not just about political independence; it encompassed economic prosperity, social justice, and peaceful coexistence with the minority communities including Hindu, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis and others religions. He emphasised the importance of developing Pakistan’s industrial potential alongside its agriculture, with a focus on equality and social justice rooted in Islamic principles.
In his own words, Quaid-e-Azam stated, “If Pakistan wished to play its proper role in the world, it must develop its industrial potential side by side with its agriculture. We must work our destiny in our way and present the world an economic system, based on the true Islamic concept of equality and social justice.”
Similarly, Quaid-e-Azam advocated for a foreign policy based on friendliness, goodwill, honesty, and fair play. He emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence and maintaining cordial relations with neighbouring countries and the international community.
Regarding defence policy, Quaid-e-Azam underscored the necessity of building a strong deterrent force to safeguard Pakistan against external threats. He recognised the vital role of Pakistan’s armed forces as the custodians of the nation’s security and integrity. Don’t forget Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s famous quote, “A country without a strong Air Force is at the mercy of any aggressor. Pakistan must build up her Air Force as quickly as possible. It must be an efficient Air Force, Second to None”. And I personally believe PAF has projected this with true letter and spirit.
Muhammad Ali also emphasised the significance of education in nation-building, character development, and economic progress. He called for the highest standards of integrity and justice in civil services, stressing the importance of serving the people with honesty and fairness. Once he said “Develop a sound sense of discipline character, initiative and a solid academic background. You must devote yourself whole-heartedly to your studies, for that is your first obligation to yourselves, your parents and to the state. You must learn to obey for only then you can learn to command.”
Despite Pakistan’s achievements in various fields, including its emergence as a strong military power with nuclear capabilities, the nation continues to grapple with numerous challenges. Issues such as heavy foreign debt, low industrial and agricultural production, corruption, weak judicial systems, and inadequate education and healthcare infrastructure persist. Not to forget, pollution growth and impact of climate change, which is doubing all the parameter discussed before.
To truly realise Quaid-e-Azam’s vision, Pakistan must address these challenges with determination and resolve. It requires rigorous efforts to strengthen the economy, enhance education and healthcare services, combat corruption, and ensure social justice for all citizens.
As we celebrate Pakistan Resolution Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a prosperous, just, and inclusive Pakistan – a nation that embodies the ideals and principles envisioned by the founder Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.