His Highness the Aga Khan IV (1936-2025) Visionary Humanitarian, May 20th, 2026 (2026-05)

His Late Highness Aga Khan IV was born on 13 December 1936, in Geneva, son of the late Prince Aly Khan and his first wife, the late Princess Tajuddawlah, née Joan Yarde-Buller. He spent his early childhood in Nairobi, Kenya. His Highness the Aga Khan IV graduated from Harvard University in 1959 with a BA Honors Degree in Islamic history.

On 11 July 1957, at the age of 20, he succeeded his grandfather, Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III as the 49th Imam. spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslim community. He led the Ismaili community for 67 years, a period of enormous change. The title "His Highness" was granted by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1957 following the practice of earlier British monarchs who had accorded the same title to Aga Khans I, II and III.

Driven by the ethics of faith and the Imam's hereditary responsibility to improve quality of life, His Highness has been at the forefront of innovation and development during his Imamat. He established the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), one of the most comprehensive development networks today, working to improve living conditions and opportunities for people in some of the poorest, most vulnerable parts of the developing world, irrespective of their faith, race, ethnicity or gender. The AKDN, with over 96,000 employees, operates in 30 countries, principally in Central and South Asia, Eastern and Western Africa and the Middle East.

Inspired by the Islamic ethic of compassion and responsibility to care for the needy, the AKDN works for the Muslim Ummah and the societies within which they live, addressing key challenges. related to human development regardless of gender, origin, or religion. The AKDN institutions have mandates ranging from health and education to architecture, microfinance, disaster reduction, rural development, revitalisation of historic cities as well as the promotion of private-sector enterprise, all of which are catalysts for socio-economic development. Together, they contribute towards building a vibrant civil society that caters to the needs of vulnerable segments. The AKDN works in close partnership with public and private institutions, including governments, international organisations, NGOs, and universities.

The AKDN operates more than 700 health care facilities, 2 universities and over 200 schools in some of the most remote and disadvantaged parts of the developing world. Each year, among numerous interventions, the AKDN provides quality health care to 5,000,000 people, educates 2,000,000 students from preschool to university level, generates electricity for 10,000,000 people, and helps 8,000,000 achieve greater food security and raise household incomes.

During the 67 years of Imamat, the AKDN institutions in Pakistan have made significant contributions in the social, economic and cultural development of the country.

The AKDN provides vital medical and educational facilities to a large segment of the country's vulnerable population. The Aga Khan University Hospital and related medical facilities have proven to be a game changer in raising the quality of health care in Pakistan. It continues to be the beacon for medical breakthrough with medical facilities of international standards and a highly reputed medical school.

The AKDN also established the first Aga Khan School in Gwadar in 1905. Since then, education facilities under the AKDN have expanded to more than 160 schools operating in some of the most remote areas of Pakistan. The AKDN in Pakistan is amongst the first to recognise the critical, long term impact of Early Childhood Development, and has thus implemented innovative and interactive programmes in its schools.

Aga Khan Rural Support Programme, established in 1982 by the Aga Khan Foundation, has greatly improved the socio-economic conditions in the rural areas of Pakistan, through rural development projects such as training to improve skills and creating access to finance, and the provision of facilities resulting in access to clean water and electricity.

AKDN projects to restore historical forts and monuments such as the Walled City of Lahore have not only helped preserve culture but also encouraged tourism and economic development in rural and urban areas of Pakistan

The Ismaili Imamat's collaboration with national governments, international public agencies and non-governmental organisations stems from a common purpose and shared values and objectives to improve the quality of life of those most in need. The Ismaili Imamat has diplomatic relations with various countries and partnerships with many international and national organisations. At the invitation of the Government of Portugal, His Highness the Aga Khan IV established the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat (global headquarters) in Lisbon in 2018.

In recognition of his exceptional efforts and contributions to human development and improving the social condition of societies globally, His Highness the Aga Khan IV has received numerous decorations, honorary degrees, and awards from institutions and nations across the world. In Pakistan, His Highness has been awarded the following honours:

Ø  Nishan-e-Imtiaz (1970)

Ø  Nishan-e-Pakistan (1983)

Ø  LL.D. (honoris causa) University of Peshawar (1967)

Ø  LL.D. (honoris causa) University of Sindh (1970)

Ø  Honorary Membership, Pakistan Medical Association (1981)

Ø  Honorary Fellowship of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP), (1985)

To honour the legacy of His Highness Aga Khan IV (1936-2025) Visionary Humanitarian, Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.30/- each denomination on May 20th, 2026.

Pakistan Academy of Letters Golden Jubilee. April 15th, 2026 (2026-04)

Established in 1976 as an autonomous organization under the National Heritage and Culture Division, Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) is a national institution dedicated to the promotion and publication of literature in Pakistani languages, as well as to the intellectual and financial support of writers. The Academy functions under a Board of Govermors comprising representative writers from across the country and various Pakistani languages. In addition to its headquarters in islamabad, the Academy operates five regional offices in Lahore, Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, and Multan, which play an active role in organizing literary activities and maintaining liaison with writers nationwide.

This year, Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Over the past five decades, it has established itself as a dynamic and multifaceted national mattution contributing significantly to the promotion of Pakistani iterature and languages. During this period, PAL has published more than 600 books, including creative, research-based, and translated works. It has also actively promoted translations of international literature into Urdu and other Pakistani languages, as wel as translations of Pakistani literature into world languages. For the promotion of literature, PAL, regularly publishes its quarterly joumal Adabiyat, along with journals in Pakistani languages. To promote literature produced in English in Pakistan, as well as English translations of Pakistani literature, a high-quality illary yournal titled Pakistani Literature is published. Additionally, an online edition titled Adabiyat Intemational is also available.

Through its Translation Bureau (Darul Tarjuma), PAL translates selected works of world Sternsturs inte Untu and other Pakistani languages, and introduces selected works of Pakistani literature in world languages. For this purposes, lateral translation projects are also being carried out under Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with literary and cultural institutions of various countries.

PAL also organizes local national and international literary events on diverse academic and literary themes, including international conferences, seminars, and mushairas For the training and encouragement of emerging writers, PAL, conducts residency programs, literary festivals, exchange programs, creative

workshops, and informal intellectual gatherings such as "Chai, Baatai'n aur Kitabal'n", Under the Academy's Studio interviews with prominent writers, recordings of literary events and audiobooks are produced and disseminated through its digital platforms.

Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) has also made notable contributions to the promotion of children's literature, including special publications, translations, journals such as Adabiyät Atfäl, and conferences

In recogriition of literary excellence, PAL has established a "Hall of Fame" at its head office, Islamabad, where the contributions of prominent Pakistani weillers and poets are preserved. Furthermore, to safeguard literary hentage, PAL, established a Literary Museum of 74 Pakistani Languages in 2025, where information related to Pakistani languages and their literalwe will be preserved in digital, audio, and video formats.

The welfare of writers remains one of PAL's core priorities. For this purpose, financial assistance and monthly stipends are provided to deserving writers, while institutions working for the promotion of literature are also supported, PAL, also advises the government on matters related to national languages and literature, and nominates writers for civil awards

Each year, Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) confers National Literary Awards on 22 outstanding books across ten Pakistani languages. In addition, the prestigious Kamal-i-funn Award is presented to distinguished weilers in recognition of their lifetime achievements.

On the eve of Pakistan Academy of Letters Golden Jubilee Pakistan Post Is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.30/- each denomination on April 18 2026.

Centenary Celebrations The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (1925-2025). March 4th 2026. (2026-03)

The year 2025 marks a historic milestone in the journey of The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (IUB) as it proudly celebrates its centenary. From its humble beginnings as Jamia Abbasia in 1925 to its present status as a comprehensive public-sector university, IUB has embodied the spirit of resilience, transformation, and service to society.

Origins: Jamia Abbasia (1925) The roots of The Islamia University of Bahawalpur can be traced to Jamia Abbasia, founded in 1925 in the princely state of Bahawalpur. Jamia Abbasia was established as a religious seminary on the pattern of Al-Azhar University, Cairo. Its primary mission was to impart Islamic education, preserve religious scholarship, and provide spiritual guidance to the people of the region. For decades, Jamia Abbasia attracted scholars, theologians, and students from across South Asia, becoming a center of intellectual discourse and religious learning.

Transition to The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (1975) With the merger of Bahawalpur State into Pakistan and the growing demands of a modernizing society, the academic landscape required a broader vision. Recognizing this need, the Government of Punjab upgraded Jamia Abbasia into a full-fledged university in 1975, renaming it The Islamia University of Bahawalpur. This transition was more than a change of name; it was a redefinition of mission. The IUB retained its foundation of moral and spiritual values while embracing modern disciplines such as natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, agriculture, business, and medicine. This transformation signaled the University's role in bridging tradition with modernity. It began to prepare students not only for religious and cultural leadership but also for professional and scientific contributions to Pakistan's development.

Growth and Expansion:- Over the past fifty years as a university, IUB has grown into one of the largest and most dynamic higher education institutions in Pakistan. It has established multiple campuses in Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Liaquatpur, and Rahim Yar Khan, thereby serving the educational needs of a wide geographical area in South Punjab. Today, the University offers more than 300 degree programs, ranging from undergraduate to doctoral levels, across diverse disciplines.

With a faculty strength of around 1,200, the IUB boasts modern laboratories, digital libraries, and research centers that match international standards. This remarkable growth demonstrates the University's unwavering commitment to making higher education accessible to all segments of society, particularly in underserved regions.

Academic Excellence and Research Contributions:- As an institution, IUB has prioritized both quality education and cutting-edge research. The University hosts faculties and institutes in disciplines such as:

Agriculture and Environment addressing the region's agrarian economy and sustainability challenges.

Engineering, Information Technology, and Artificial Intelligence equipping graduates with skills for the digital economy.

Health and Medical Sciences contributing to the healthcare sector through teaching and medical research.

Islamic Studies, Languages, and Social Sciences carrying forward the legacy of Jamia Abbasia in harmony with modern inquiry.

Through national and international collaborations, the University has participated in research projects of global relevance, addressing climate change, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship. Publications from IUB faculty regularly appear in leading indexed journals, reflecting a growing global academic footprint.

Cultural and Regional Impact:- Located in the heart of South Punjab, The IUB has always been more than just a university; it is a cultural anchor for the region. The University has preserved the rich heritage of Bahawalpur, once a princely state known for its palaces, mosques, and traditions of learning. By organizing cultural festivals, conferences, and exhibitions, IUB ensures that the identity of South Punjab is celebrated and shared with the wider world.

Moreover, the University has played a central role in promoting Urdu, Saraiki, and Arabic languages, as well as Islamic scholarship, thereby ensuring that local identity coexists with global relevance. Its alumni have gone on to become leaders in academia, politics, civil services, agriculture, business, and religious affairs, carrying forward the values of service and scholarship.

National Role and Achievements:- The Islamia University of Bahawalpur stands today among the leading universities in Pakistan, recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) for its contributions. It has earned multiple accreditations in professional disciplines, ranked consistently among the country's top public universities, and hosted numerous national and international conferences.

Its research journals, centers of excellence, and academic linkages continue to contribute toward achieving Pakistan's national development goals, particularly in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Furthermore, the University's emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation has nurtured a generation of graduates who are job creators rather than job seekers.

The Centenary Spirit (1925-2025) Celebrating 100 years of knowledge and service is both a moment of pride and a call to future responsibility. The centenary celebrations highlight the University's journey from a small religious seminary to a modern, comprehensive university serving tens of thousands of students.

The Commemorative stamp symbolizes:

1. Heritage:- Honoring Jamia Abbasia and its legacy of faith, scholarship, and learning.

2. Transformation:- capturing the expansion of the institution into a multidisciplinary university.

3. Service reflecting the University's role in advancing education and development in South Punjab and Pakistan.

4. Vision showcasing the University's commitment to global competitiveness and sustainability in its second century.

On the eve of the centenary of The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (1925-2025), Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.100/- each denomination on March 4th, 2026.

Kashmir Solidarity Day. February 5th, 2026. (2026-02)

Kashmir Solidarity Day, observed annually on 5 February, reflects Pakistan's enduring commitment to stand with the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their struggle for dignity, justice, and the right to self-determination. The origins of this observance are rooted in a period when the scale of repression in Indian-Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir had drawn national and international concern. The formal initiative to mark this day was first proposed by Qazi Hussain Ahmed, a political leader and former head of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan. In 1990, the call gained decisive national momentum when Mian Nawaz Sharif, then the Chief Minister of Punjab, appealed for a nationwide strike and public mobilisation to protest against the ongoing Indian occupation and to express solidarity with the Kashmiri freedom struggle. The day was subsequently endorsed by major political parties and civil society organisations and was later declared a public holiday, cementing its place as a collective national expression of moral and political support.

The observance serves as a solemn reflection on the grave human rights violations faced by the Kashmiri people under Indian occupation. The region remains among the most militarised zones in the world, where civilians continue to endure excessive use of force, arbitrary detentions, custodial violence, enforced disappearances, and severe restrictions on movement and communication. Independent reports over the years have documented intimidation, demographic engineering efforts, and repeated assaults on fundamental freedoms. These conditions underscore Pakistan's longstanding position that peace, stability, and legitimacy in the region cannot emerge through coercion or the systematic erosion of human dignity.

Across Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the day is marked with extensive public engagement aimed at amplifying Kashmiri voices and reinforcing a unified national stance. Public processions, human chains on routes leading into AJK, special prayers, and community gatherings express solidarity with the Kashmiri people. Government institutions, political parties, religious leaders, and civil society networks organise conferences, seminars, and media programmes that highlight the historical context of the dispute, present documented accounts of ongoing violations, and reaffirm Pakistan's advocacy for a peaceful resolution based on the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Educational institutions host debates and dialogue forums to engage youth in informed reflection on the human rights dimensions of the conflict and the responsibilities of the global community.

Each year, the observance of 5 February renews Pakistan's resolve to continue supporting the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their just struggle. It reinforces a principled national commitment that no durable peace in South Asia can be achieved without acknowledging the rights, sacrifices, and aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Through this day, Pakistan stands firm in upholding the ideals of justice, humanity, and the right of oppressed communities to determine their own future.

On the eve of Kashmir Solidarity Day Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.30/- each denomination on February 5th, 2026.

25th Anniversary of PARCO Mid-Country Refinery, January 28, 2026 (2026-01)

The year 2025 marked the 25th anniversary of the commissioning of Pak-Arab Refinery Limited's (PARCO) Mid-Country Refinery (MCR) - a milestone in Pakistan's journey towards energy self-reliance and industrial modernization.

The Foundation of Mid-Country Refinery:- In the early 1990s, Pakistan faced growing energy demand, a widening gap between domestic refining capacity and consumption, and heavy dependence on imported refined petroleum products. Recognizing the strategic necessity of expanding local refining Infrastructure, PARCO a joint venture between the Government of Pakistan and the Emirate of Abu Dhabi undertook the visionary project of establishing a state-of-the-art refinery at Mahmoodkot, District Muzaffargarh.

Commissioned in 2000, the Mid-Country Refinery (MCR) was designed with an initial capacity of 100,000 barrels per day (bpd), making it the largest and most modern refinery in the country at the time. Its location was strategically selected at the crossroads of Pakistan's north-south energy corridors, connecting PARCO's White Oil Pipeline System (WOP) and ensuring efficient supply of refined petroleum products to major consumption centers.

Technological Milestones and Upgradation:- Over its 25-year journey, MCR has evolved from being a national refining asset to a benchmark of operational excellence in South Asia. The refinery's commitment to modernization was reaffirmed in 2020, when its refining capacity was enhanced to 120,000 bpd, alongside the upgrade of fuel specifications to meet international environmental standards.

A defining feature of MCR's operations has been its focus on cleaner fuels and sustainable refining. It was the first refinery in Pakistan to install a Diesel Hydro Desulphurization (DHDS) Plant a facility with a maximum capacity of 26,000 bpd, enabling production of Euro III compliant, low-sulphur diesel. This milestone not only aligned Pakistan's fuel standards with global environmental benchmarks but also contributed to cleaner air and reduced vehicular emissions across the country.

In addition to producing high-quality Diesel, Petrol, Jet Fuel, LPG, Kerosene, Furnace Oil, Sulphur, and Asphalt, the refinery houses an Asphalt Air Blowing Unit (AABU) that manufactures road and industrial grade Asphalt meeting international specifications. The AABU's output has supported national infrastructure development, from highways to Industrial zones, embodying MCR's role in "fueling progress" both literally and figuratively.

Economic and Strategic Significance:- MCR's contribution to Pakistan's economy and energy security has been profound. As a backbone of the country's refining infrastructure, it plays a vital role in reducing dependence on imported refined fuels by processing mainly light and medium crude oils sourced through both domestic and international channels. The refinery's output caters to a substantial share. of the national fuel demand, supplying energy to power industries, transportation networks, and households across the nation.

Moreover, MCR's integration with PARCO's pipeline and storage network has brought unprecedented efficiency and safety to the national oil supply chain. Its operations have reduced road transport of petroleum products, lowering logistics costs and mitigating environmental and safety risks associated with conventional fuel transportation.

The refinery has also been a catalyst for regional development in southern Punjab, dts establishment brought modern infrastructure. Employment opportunities & community development programs to Mahmoodkot and adjoining areas-transforming the region into a hub of industrial activity and contributing to Pakistan's socioeconomic progress.

Conclusion:- As Pakistan stands at the threshold of new energy challenges and opportunities, the 25th anniversary of the Mid-Country Refinery is a moment of pride and reflection. From its commissioning in 2000 to its ongoing modernization, MCR has embodied the nation's quest for self-reliance, innovation, and excellence in the energy sector.

On the eve of 25 Years of PARCO Mid-Country Refinery, Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.30/- each denomination on January 28th, 2026.