URAAN PAKISTAN, AUGUST 12, 2025 (2025-16A)

Pakistan's economy has experienced a tumultuous journey since its inception, shaped by wars, frequent regime changes, terrorism, disruption in democratic continuity, and political instability. Despite this, Pakistan sped up its economic growth from 3 percent to 4 percent in the early years and continued to increase it year on year, poised to become an Asian Tiger in the 1960s. However, the wars with India not only cost us billions of dollars but also diverted our resources from development. In the war against terror, Pakistan incurred losses amounting to $2.6 billion in 2001-02 while the numbers kept on soaring to $13.5 billion in 2009-10. The recently concluded violent protests and long marches not only caused indirect economic losses of Rs 192 billion per day but also multiplied divides and hate speech. Over decades, inconsistent policies have left Pakistan's economy vulnerable, with growth rates fluctuating dramatically-from a high of 6.8% in the 1960s to just -0.94% in 2019-20, following political unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our efforts to make Pakistan prosperous again began in 1997 with Vision 2010. However, the lack of policy continuity and political turbulence made it a long-lost goal. The desire to achieve sustainable socio-economic indicators was reinvigorated in 2013 with Vision 2025.

Amidst the war on terror, PMLN launched a National Action Plan to combat terrorism and stepped ahead to participate in CPEC in 2013 as a practical manifestation of the geo-economic narrative for reviving the war-torn economy. But once again the regime change regressed the efforts to square one.

Pakistan is at a critical juncture where the economic landscape is fraught with immense difficulties. Today, we are fighting with strained foreign relations, dwindling foreign exchange reserves, mounting debt, poor export performance, energy crisis, youth bulge, and social disparities besides political dissent. All-time high inflation has eroded the purchasing power. This is hindering economic development, exacerbating poverty, and weakening national security. The inflation rate in 2013 was7.5%, while we concluded our tenure in 2018 with an inflation rate of 4.8%. However, upon resuming office in 2022, we confronted a sharp increase in inflation from a single digit to 28.2%. We inherited a country on the brink of default in April 2022, facing widespread economic uncertainty. Our first step after resuming office was to address the economic challenges and explore the pathways for sustainable growth after revoking the prevalent trend of populist politics. The Turnaround Pakistan Summit in 2022 aimed at identifying these key challenges and formulating the 5Es Framework (Exports, E-Pakistan, Environment, Energy & Infrastructure, and Equity, Ethics & Empowerment) for inclusive and sustainable national prosperity. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, we have spent two years preparing the launch pad for Pakistan's take-off. As a last resort to uplift Pakistan's economy, we have launched URAAN Pakistan, by the people, of the people, for the people of Pakistan.

Today, Pakistan is at a decisive crossroads, facing two distinct paths either to maintain the current trajectory and reach $1 trillion by 2047 or adopt a transformational strategy achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2035 anda $3 trillion economy by 2047with a robust, transformative approach based on the 5Es framework, growing at a CAGR of 9.8%. The overarching goal of the National Economic Transformation Plan (2024-2035) is to make Pakistan a trillion-dollar economy by 2035.With resilience, potential, opportunities, and resources, Pakistan is now ready to speed up its wings and fly high to become the next Asian Tiger by shifting towards an export-led growth economy.

Being at an inflection point, this 13th Five-Year Plan 2024-2029 will serve as a lifeline for Pakistan's economy. It is a turning point for the nation's economic trajectory. The GDP growth is projected to rise to 6 percent by 2028-29, up from 2.5 percent in 2023-24. Meanwhile, the inflation rate is expected to decrease to 6.2 percent from 23.4 percent. The public debt is anticipated to drop by 60 percent by 2028-29, down from the current 67 percent. Additionally, food security is forecasted to improve, with its rate expected to decrease to 8 percent from 16 percent.

Uraan Pakistan is about doubling the national productivity of Pakistan with a transformation towards an export-led turnaround achieving $60 billion in yearly exports. The focus on export development strategies synchronized with industrial development will secure Pakistan's space in the global market boosting its national brand and international competitiveness. The upcoming GSP Scheme 2024-34 will facilitate the export of Pakistani goods to the European Union. Skilled and semi-skilled human resources will find employment opportunities in GCC countries through the Free Trade Agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Uraan Pakistan is a strategic roadmap to transform Pakistan into a techno-economy by increasing the ICT freelancing industry to USD 5 billion, driven by technological excellence and innovation. The Framework aligns with SDGs with a special focus on climate adaptation and mitigation measures ensuring food security and productivity by cultivating 20.3 million acres of land. The energy sector will undergo some sustainable reforms to empower the indigenous industries by increasing the share of renewable power to over 10%. The inclusivity of public-private partnerships and equitable development reducing economic disparities is at the heart of Uraan Pakistan. The government has enabled citizen's entry into the decision-making process through the Champions of Reforms (COR) network.

The 5Es Framework and 13th Five Year Plan mandate that Pakistan shares a common vision desiring political stability, governance frameworks, peace and security, policy and legislative reforms, and human capital development. The successful implementation of the 5Es Framework will depend on activating six key enablers: ensuring political stability, promoting peace and security, developing human capital, establishing governance frameworks, and establishing policy and legislative reforms.

Sustainable development is built on inclusivity. Let's unite to make our country bloom!

-On the eve of launch of Uraan Pakistan The homegrown Transformational Plan, Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of denomination Rs. 30/-on August 12th, 2025.

YOUM-E-ISTEHSAL KASHMIR. AUGUST 5th, 2025 (2025-16)

Kashmir have been resisting Indian state oppression ever since 1947. On 5th Aug 2019 Indian fascist regime unilaterally and illegally attempted to alter the internationally-recognized disputed status of Indian illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) in sheer contravention of International Law and corresponding UNSC Resolutions. This illegal act was preceded by imposition of an unprecedented military siege and communication blockade that continues till date.

Government of Pakistan has constantly been sensitizing the international community through political, diplomatic and media outreach about ongoing Indian state terrorism in IIOJK. As 5th August 2025 is approaching, innocent Kashmiris are still under worst human rights violations. A special postage stamp is being issued to mark the unprecedented spate of arbitrary detentions, extrajudicial killing and other gross abuses of human rights in Indian illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir.

The situation of IIOJK is still tense, marked by the state security agencies high-handedness and political victimization. The Kashmiri masses have neither forgotten the pain of lockdown and humiliation nor accepted the Indian actions of 5th August, 2019. Indian has not only violated UN Resolutions, but it has also reneged on its own commitments.

Jammu & Kashmir is an internationally disputed territory; Pakistan strongly supports the right to self-determination of the people of Kashmir, and implementation of UN Resolution to resolve the Kashmir issue.

India should revisit its unilateral and illegal actions taken on 5th August 2019 in which the State of IIOJK was bifurcated into two Union Territories and the special status of IIOJK rights of the state's subjects were revoked.

UN fact-finding teams and international human rights NGOs should be allowed to visit IIOJK to assess the ground realities and the ongoing human right violations.

All political prisoners should be released and freedom should be extended for carrying out political activities with immediate effect.

India must stop human right violations including killing of youth and harassment of innocent Kashmiris masses through cordon and search operations.

The stamp depicts Pakistan's stance on Kashmir. Pakistan will continue its moral political and diplomatic support to the people of IIOJK.

The stamp design depicts the sufferings imposed upon the brave Kashmiri people of the IIOJK, and their unmatched spirit & aspirations of freedom from Indian occupation.

On the eve of Condemning Revocation of article 370/35 a on 5th August 2019 Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), Pakistan Post is issuing the Special Postage Stamp of Rs.30/- denomination on August 5th, 2025.

USTAD ASLAM ROODA. MAY 16, 2025 (2025-15)

Ustad Aslam Rodda:- A Legendary Hockey Coach and Master Builder of Champions Ustad Aslam Roda left an indelible mark on Pakistani hockey, etching his name in the annals of the sport's history. His remarkable journey, dedicated to hockey from his youth until his last breath, transformed the lives of countless individuals and elevated Gojra to unprecedented heights.

In the history of sports, no other small town has produced as many players as Gojra, a testament to Roda's tireless efforts and dedication. Born on October 1, 1945, in Amritsar, Roda's family migrated to Pakistan and settled in Gojra.

Roda was himself a Pakistani international hockey player before becoming a renowned coach who brought about transformative change. His playing experience and expertise laid the foundation for his future success as a coach.

Roda's coaching legacy began with a passion to give back to his community. His contributions to hockey are unparalleled, producing over 100 international and national players.

Notable players include Tahir Zaman, Shahbaz Ahmed Jr., and Irfan Mehmood, all Pride of Performance Award winners, 1994 World Cup winners, and Olympic medalists.

Through hockey Roda transformed the lives of over 350 families living below the poverty line and empowering them to achieve economic stability and prosperity. Through his coaching, he provided opportunities for young players to secure scholarships, jobs, and international recognition.

A pioneer for women's hockey, Roda established and trained Gojra's first women's hockey team. It is still another example of his paving the way for female athletes in the region and producing several international players. This groundbreaking initiative not only promoted gender equality but also challenged societal norms.

Under his guidance, Gojra earned the prestigious title of "Olympic Hockey Village," recognizing its impressive hockey record, as noted by the BBC. This distinction not only honored Roda's achievements but also put Gojra on the global sports map.

Roda's coaching philosophy emphasized discipline, hard work, and teamwork. He instilled in his players a strong sense of national pride, responsibility, and sportsmanship. His training methods, though unconventional, yielded remarkable results, earning him respect and admiration from peers and players alike. Roda's legacy extends beyond his coaching accomplishments. He played a crucial role in promoting hockey infrastructure development in Gojra, advocating for better facilities and resources for young players.

Ustad Aslam Roda passed away on January 21, 2013, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service. His demise was mourned by the entire nation, with tributes pouring in from the hockey community and beyond.

Today, Roda's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the hockey academy he founded. His story serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that dedication, passion, and selflessness can transform communities and shape the future of sports.

The town of Gojra remains eternally grateful to Ustad Aslam Roda, who transformed its sports landscape and put Pakistan on the global hockey map. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of sports to unite, inspire, and uplift communities. He was a legend.

In recognition of the outstanding contributions of Ustad Aslam Roda to the development of hockey in Pakistan, both as a distinguished player and a dedicated coach, Pakistan Post is issuing a commemorative postage stamp of Rs. 50/- denomination on 16th May 2025. His efforts in nurturing talent and promoting the national sport have left a lasting legacy in the history of Pakistani hockey.

40 YEARS OF ISLAMABAD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY. MAY 15, 2025 (2025-14)

Mission Statement:- As the premier Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Northern Region, with national and international linkages, ICCI aims to enhance its leadership role by being proactive and delivering quality services to its members. The Chamber acts as a catalyst for rapid economic development through the promotion of trade, industry, service sectors, youth entrepreneurship, and women's economic empowerment.

Vision Statement:- To establish ICCI as a leading trade organization and a national role model by initiating growth-oriented projects and adopting international best practices for the promotion of trade, industry, and service sectors.

Profile the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), established in 1984, operates under the Companies Act VII of 1913 as a Limited Company by Guarantee. Based in Islamabad, ICCI's jurisdiction covers the Federal Capital Area (urban and rural). It is affiliated with the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and is a member of international Chambers of Commerce.

ICCI's governance is overseen by an elected Executive Committee led by the President, supported by two Vice Presidents, with administrative matters managed by the Secretary General. Various sub-committees focus on trade promotion, industrial and SME development, taxation, energy efficiency, tourism, and economic empowerment. The Chamber serves over 10,000 members from industry and trade sectors, contributing significantly to the region's GDP. An inclusive structure includes a President, Senior Vice President, Vice President, 32 Executive Committee members, and numerous standing committees.

Forum for Interaction:- ICCI provides a platform for collaboration and dialogue among industry representatives, trade officials, and service providers.Key activities include:

·         Regular interactions with foreign diplomats, senior government officials, and provincial representatives.

·         Recommendations to the government on trade and investment policies.

·         Highlighting business community issues through media and engaging government for policy reforms.

·         Organizing B2B meetings, international trade delegations, and participation in global exhibitions.

·         Consistent engagement with foreign missions to promote bilateral trade.

·         Hosting training programs, seminars, conferences, and workshops for skill development.

·         Promoting youth entrepreneurship and women's economic empowerment.

ICCI Achievements:- ICCI's accomplishments reflect its commitment to economic development:

·         Organized significant events such as the All Pakistan Chambers Presidents Conference.

·         Business Opportunities Conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

·         International Business Conference in Dubai.

·         Contributed to social responsibility initiatives, including water filtration plants and medical camps.

·         Recognized with awards, such as the National Youth Award 2009, for contributions to entrepreneurship and women's excellence.

·         Established strategic advisory councils integrating senior and junior members for effective policy-making.

·         Developed modern facilities, including two landmark buildings on Srinagar Highway, symbolizing ICCI's prominence.

·         Organizes two tourism conferences in Skrdu which were attended by a number of ambassadors and diplomats.

·         It has two big majestic buildings on the prime Mauve Area in G8/1.

·         It has state of the art auditorium with about 375 people capacity.

·         Introduced Enterprise Resource System (ERP). Free ambulance system.

·         FM radio of Islamabad Chamber

Representation and Services:- ICCI has representation on key government advisory boards, committees, and academic platforms, ensuring advocacy for trade, industry, and service sectors. Value-added service desks for members include:

1. RARE

2. Police Verification

3. Federal Ombudsman

4. IESCO

5. TDAP (Trade Development Authority of Pakistan)

6. Arbitration council

7. Upcoming desk for Pakistan Post Office

The Chamber also partners with restaurants, hospitals, and schools to provide affordable services to its members.

Future Aspirations ICCI aims to:

·         Enhance its leadership role as a proactive trade organization.

·         To make the Chamber the best support organization by introducing the modern governance.

·         Advocate for favorable business environments through strategic policy recommendations.

·         Foster economic growth by promoting trade, industry, and entrepreneurship.

·         Support local businesses and strengthen international trade relationships through innovation and collaboration.

·         To set up an Industrial Estate in Islamabad.

·         To set up a TV channel.

ICCI remains committed to being a beacon of economic development, empowering businesses, and inspiring confidence in Pakistan's future prosperity.

On the Occasion of 40th Anniversary of Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamps, of Rs. 40/-denomination on 15th May, 2025.

INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF GLACIERS' PRESERVATION. MAY 9th, 2025 (2025-13)

The United Nations General Assembly in its resolution A/RES/77/158dated 14 December 2022 declared 2025 as the International Year of Glaciers' Preservation. Purpose of this initiative is to raise awareness on the vital role glaciers, snow, and ice play in the climate system and water cycle, as well as the far-reaching impacts of rapid glacial melt. Aim is to highlight the urgent need to protect glaciers from the rapid melting caused by climate change, which impacts freshwater access to over 2 billion people worldwide. This commemoration aims to mobilize international action to address the challenges posed by glacier loss and promote sustainable practices to preserve them.

Around 70% of the global freshwater is stored in glaciers and ice sheets, however these ice formations are rapidly retreating due to climate disruption. Preserving these crucial resources is essential for environmental sustainability, economic stability and safeguarding cultures and livelihoods. Glaciers supply freshwater to over half of humanity. As they retreat, they are altering water availability and quality downstream, with implications for aquatic ecosystems and sectors including agriculture and hydropower. This is accompanied by a short-term in landslides, avalanches, floods and droughts, as well as a long-term threat to the security of water supplies for billions of people.

Outside the polar region, Pakistan is the country with the highest number of glaciers in the world. However, climate change has significantly contributed to the rapid melting of these glaciers. The melting of glaciers in Pakistan has several adverse effects on the country's economy, including water scarcity, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased natural disasters. According to a report by the World Bank, Pakistan is one of the most water-stressed countries in the world, and the rapid melting of glaciers is exacerbating this issue. It is estimated that Pakistan's water supply will fall below the minimum threshold of 1,000 cubic meters per person per year by 2025, leading to increased water scarcity and reduced agricultural productivity.

The melting of glaciers is also causing an increase in natural disasters such as floods, landslides and glacial lake outburst floods. In recent years, Pakistan has experienced several devastating floods, which have caused significant damage to economy, infrastructure and livelihoods. Glacial Lake Outburst Flood is another danger which refers to a sudden and catastrophic release of water from a glacial lake, typically caused by the collapse of a natural dam formed by ice or debris, or by a sudden rise in water levels due to melting glaciers. These floods can result in severe downstream flooding, often causing significant damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and human lives. Glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) are a significant concern in Pakistan, particularly in its northern regions, where numerous glaciers exist in the mountain ranges of Hindu Kush, Karakoram, and Himalayas. Pakistan's vulnerability to glacial lake outburst floods is likely to increase as the effects of climate change worsen.

The reduced availability of freshwater due to glacier melting is also affecting Pakistan's hydropower generation, which accounts for approximately 29% of the country's electricity production. According to a report by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development, the melting of glaciers will lead to a significant reduction in hydropower generation in the country, which will have adverse effects on Pakistan's economy.

It is feared that two-thirds (68%) of World's Glaciers are set to disappear by 2100 under current global warming scenario. The melting of glaciers in Pakistan is not just a local problem but a global one that requires immediate action. Failure to address this issue will not only harm Pakistan's economy and water security but also have wider implications for the region and the world. There are over 7,000 glaciers in Pakistan and together these form the most amount of ice outside the polar regions. The glaciers shown on the stamps of this issue are as below:

1. Siachen Glacier. 76 km (47 mi) long, Siachen is the longest glacier in the Karakoram and second-longest in the world's non-polar areas at an altitude of 5,753 m (18,875 ft). "Sia" in the Balti language refers to the rose family plant widely dispersed in the region. "Chen" refers to any object found in abundance. Thus, the name Siachen refers to a land with an abundance of roses. The glacier's melting waters are the main source of the Shyok River. The Shyok in turn joins the 3000 kilometre-long Indus River which flows through the length of Pakistan. Thus, the glacier is a major source of the Indus and feeds the largest irrigation system in the world.

2. Biafo Glacier. Measuring 67 km (42 mi) in length, Biafo is the third-longest glacier in the world's non-polar areas at an altitude of 5,128 metres (16,824 ft). Snow Lake (shown on stamp), consisting of parts of the upper Biafo Glacier and its tributary glacier Sim Gang, is one of the world's largest basins of snow or ice in the world outside the polar regions, up to 1,600 m (0.99 mi) in depth. Evidence of wildlife can be seen on the glacier, including Ibex and Markhor. Although sightings are rare, the area is also known for Himalayan brown bears and snow leopards.

3. Baltoro Glacier. 63 km (39 mi) in length, Baltoro is the fifth-longest glacier in the world's non-polar areas. K2 (shown on stamp), the second-highest mountain in the world, stands at the southern end of the Baltoro Glacier, making the glacier an essential route for climbers attempting to summit K2. The confluence of the main Baltoro Glacier with the Godwin-Austen Glacier is known as Concordia; this location and K2 base camp are popular trekking. destinations.

Design Elements

Each stamp and souvenir sheet in the issue as well as the postmark showcases International Year of Glaciers' Preservation logo. The CMYK colour palette has also been illustrated using the logo.

Pakistan's first Tête-bêche pair: a stamp inverted in relation to the adjoining stamp in a pair.

To commemorate International Year of Glaciers' Preservation, Pakistan Post is issuing a set of six Commemorative Postage Stamps and three Souvenir Sheets of Rs 30/- denomination each on May 9th 2025.