Hakim Muhammad Hasan Qarshi. (2002-12)

Born 27 December 1896 in Gujrat, Shifa-ul-Mulk Hakim Muhammad Hasan Qarshi was a many faceted personality. He was a physician, visionary, humanist, a spiritual and religious person, author, an educationist, philanthropist, who remained dedicated throughout his life to the service to Tibb, Pakistan and Islam. He also actively participated as a front line soldier with his Kashimiri brethern in 1948 in their freedom struggle.
It was through his untiring personal efforts that on 25 January 1946, Tibb Registration Committee came into being and was recognized by the then government in Punjab legislative Assembly. It was due to the dedication and exemplary hard work of shifa-ul-Mulk Hakim Muhammad Hasan Oarshi that Pakistan Government approved Unani, Ayurvedic and Homeopathic Practitioners Act, 1965. As a result, Tibbi Board came into being and Tibb was officially accepted as a system of treatment. It was his aim to lay the foundations for the clinical research in the profession of Tibb, so that all the contents in a medicine were fully utilized in every respect for the treatment of ailing humanity. As a physician he treated over two million patients.
Shifa-ul-Mulk Hakim Muhammad Hasan Qarshi took on his professional, humanitarian and national responsibilities in a very devoted manner. He always made very active, positive exemplary and memorable contribution with long lasting impressions particularly to the professional benefit of all those associated with Tibb. These contributions have remained symbolic and have served as an alma mater for the future development and modernization of Tibb and Ayurvedic medicine.
Shifa-ul-Mulk Hakim Muhammad Hasan Qarshi was a great admirer of our national poet Allama Muhammad lqbal and remained fully devoted to him as his personal physician from 1934 to 1938. For the professional excellence and also due to the successful professional struggle for Tabeebs and profession of Tibb, for securing a permanent place with the government authorities, title of Shifa-ul-Mulk was conferred upon him in 1946 by the then Chief Minister of Punjab. After the creation of Pakistan, Shifa-ul-Mulk presided over a large number of meetings, conferences, workshops and seminars for nourishing, upbringing and further developing "Tibb as a System of Treatment" both within and outside Pakistan.
Shifa-ul-Mulk Hakim Muhammad Hasan Qarshi founded his Matab at Fleming Road Lahore in 1920. In 1958 Maulana Syed Suleman Nadvi inaugurated Matab Qarshi. Later on in 1968, Oarshi Dawakhana was formally inaugurated by the respected Mufti-e-Azam Palestine Syed Amin-ul-Hussaini.
Shifa-ul-Mulk Hakim Muhammad Hasan Qarshi was appointed as Professor of Tibb at Tibbia College Delhi in 1917 on the recommendations of Maseeh-ul-Mulk Hakim Ajmal Khan. Due to his dedication and devotion to the profession of Tibb, he was appointed as the Principal of Tibbia College Bombay in 1918 to 1919. In 1920 Shifa-ul-Mulk took over the charge as principal Tibbia College Lahore, where he made significant contributions to the profession of Tibb for the next 26 years. As a sincere and pious flag bearer of Tibb, Shifa-ul-Mulk bravely fought for Tibb's recognition against both British forces and Indian masses. In the face of tough opposition Shifa-ul-Mulk ably fought with the opposing lobby and obtained a permanent place for Tibb at official platform along with establishing Tibb as an alternative medicine at government level. This historical achievement was a unique honour for Shifa-ul-Mulk's dedication to Tibb and to his professionalism in this field. During the period from 1920 to 1946, Shifa-ul-Mulk remained an active member of Tibb Research Committee, Hyderabad and the Tibb Research Committee Punjab.
In accordance with the desire of Shifa-ul-Mulk Hakim Muhammad Hasan Qarshi, for the welfare of humanity and particularly for the needy and poor, Begum Shifa-ul-Mulk laid the foundation stone of (Qarshi Foundation in 1994. This charitable unit was established from within the family resources and donations of Qarshi family without any outside assistance. Qarshi Foundation has since then made positive contributions for the needy and poor, besides the improvement of environment and protecting it from pollution.
Shifa-ul-Muik wrote, edited and authored over 1500 articles, books and publications both in Urdu and English. These writings covered a wide range of subjects including Islam, medicine, history philosophy of science and spiritualism. He also used to regularly contribute professional columns and articles to leading newspapers of that time. During his long & meritorious career held various important offices, Shifa-ul-Mulk Hakeem Muhammad Hasan Qarshi remained very actively and closely associated with Tahreek- e-Khalafat and worked as Vice President Khalafat Committee Lahore. He dedicated his efforts as a loyal and devoted team member with Maulana Zafar Ali Khan, Maulana Shaukat Ali Khan and Maulana Muhammad Ali Jauhar.
QARSHI FOUNDATION
HEALTH SECTOR
Qarshi Foundation is working on "dispensaries" and "mother and child health care centres".
Currently there are seventeen "dispensaries" and one "mother and child health care centre" working under Qarshi Foundation.
According to its vision 2005, Qarshi Foundation plans to raise two hundred dispensaries and five mother and child health care centres primarily for the needy and poor.
Financial assistance is also given to considerable number of hospitals both at Lahore and Haripur.
EDUCATION SECTOR
Education development is one of the main objectives of Qarshi Foundation. Presently, Foundation is running a high school. It has thirteen hundred students and a staff of thirty-five teachers. There is no monthly fee. Only a nominal admission fee is charged once from each student. All kinds of expenses are borne by Qarshi Foundation. According to its Vision 2005, Qarshi Foundation has planned to open five high schools.
A "Vocational Technical Training Centre" is also working to help people in self sufficiency and self employment. Boys and girls are both trained in this institution. A "Qarshi Training Institute" is working for upgrading the capability of Tabeebs and it gives them the training in the use of modern diagnostic equipment. Scholarships are given to the needy and poor students. Scholarships are also given to regular brilliant students including school, graduate, post graduate and university levels.
PUBLICATIONS
Qarshi Foundation has published the following books for the promotion of medical and religious knowledge:
1. Kitab-us-Sehat2. Kitab-ul-Haj3. Hazrat Bilal (RA)4. Mushee-ul-Atibba5. Qaumi Sehat6. Kitab-ul-Kulliyat.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Qarshi Foundation gives financial assistance to widows, needy and poor. It helps poor families by providing them with the dowry for the marriage of their girls. Qarshi Foundation, besides helping poor families, also extends financial assistance to various hospitals and religious madrissas. Date of Issue (December 20, 2002)

EID-UL-FITR. (2002-11)

Eid-ul-Fitr is the most important festival in the Islamic calendar. This festival is the culminating point of the Holy month of Ramazan, during which Quran-ul-Hakeem and Laila-tul-Qadr (Night of Grandeur) were gifted to the Muslim Ummah. While fasting teaches us self-discipline and provides us moral and spiritual blessings, Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the fasting and brings the message of collective merry-making as well as sharing our good fortune with the less fortunate in our fraternity.
The entire Muslim Ummah celebrates this most auspicious festival in every nook and corner of the world with great spiritual devotion, offering Eid Prayers in eidgahs, mosques or open spaces in towns and cities. The Eid-prayer is the clima of this grand festival. One can see during this special congregation endless sight of row upon row of the faithfully spread across the open air eidgahs, a supreme manifestation of the Muslim fraternity and equality of mankind.
After Eid prayers, the Muslims embrace and greet other fellow Muslims and pay visits to graveyards to pray for the departed souls. This sufficiently indicates that Islam is the religion of peace, friendship and aspires to promote universal brotherhood. Special sweet dishes are prepared and served to friends, relatives and other visitors to ones house. The young folk wear bright costumes and enjoy themselves with various types of entertainments on Eid day including a visit to special Eid Fairs and participating in different cultural activities. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) used to wear a new dress on this occasion. But it was always very simple which every member of the brother could afford.
No doubt, there were people who could not even afford such simple dresses. To make it possible for them to join the rejoicings of Eid, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) ordered the rich to pay them a prescribed amount (known as fitrana) in advance, so that they may be able to get their new dresses prepared for the occasion. The institution of Fitrana re-inforces Islam's emphasis on one's obligations towards society.
Some of the prescribed practices or special spiritual etiquettes of "Eid- ul-Fitr" are given below:-
1 . It is compulsory for all the faithfuls to take a bath and wear new dress.2. It is Sunnah to eat dates or some sweet dish before leaving for Eid prayers. The Holy Prophet always used to go for Eid congregation after eating some dates. (Reported by Anas bin Maalik & collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (Eng. Trans. Vol. 2 P-40 No. 73) & Ahmad.3. It is Sunnah to recite "Takbiraat" loudly while going to Eidgah for offering Eid prayers or coming back from there. It is reported that the Holy Prophet (PBUH) himself used to recite these "Takbiraat" with a loud voice on this day.4. Pay Fitrana before Eid prayers to ensure that the less fortunate among us are also enabled to share the festivities. Fitrana is to be paid for every young or old. Its rates are fixed according to the prevailing rates of wheat and dates in various Muslim countries by Ulema.5. It is preferable to offer the "Eid Prayer' in an open ground or Eidgah and not in the Masjid, if possible. (Bukhari and Muslim).6. It is Sunnah to adopt different routes to and from the Eidgah, preferably going on foot. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) himself used to go the Eidgah on foot and declared that it was more rewarding to seek the Divine blessings. Jabir reported that the Prophet (PBUH) used to come tack from the Eid prayer on a path other than the one used in going to it. (Bukhari).
Sending Eid-greetings to friends and relatives are customary on this occasion throughout the Muslim world. Exchange of special Eid cards is to show affection for the near and dear ones. Date of Issue (November 14, 2002)

Year 2002 As Allama Muhammad Iqbal Year. (2002-10)

Allama Muhammad lqbal is one of most outstanding poets, writers, intellectuals and thinkers of modern times.
lqbal was born at Sialkot on November 9, 1877. He held a brilliant academic record. After receiving his early education from Murrey College Sialkot, he did his Masters in Philosophy from Government College, Lahore and joined there as a lecturer. He left for Europe in 1905 and stayed there for three years. lqbal studied Philosophy and Law at the Trinity College, Cambridge, Lincoln's Inn, London and the Munich University. He was awarded a Ph.D by the Munich University on his renowned thesis "Mabaadut Tibbiyat".
He returned home in 1908 and rejoined service in the Government College, Lahore. He resigned after sometime and started practising Law. He was elected Member of the Punjab Legislative Assembly in 1926 for three years. In 1930 lqbal was elected President of the Muslim League session held at Alahabad. In 1931 and 1932 he attended the Round Table Conferences which met in London to frame a constitution for India and took active part in its various committees.
He was the first to give a concrete shape to the Muslim aspirations in India for 'a separate homeland', and defined its geographical boundaries as clearly and unambiguously as it could be possible far back in the year 1930. In his presidential Address at the Annual Session of the All India Muslim League at Allahabad (1930) he boldly asserted the Muslim demand for the creation of a Muslim India within India, and said "I would like to see the Punjab, the North-West Frontier Province, Sindh and Baluchistan amalgamated into a single State".
It was lqbal's ferent appeal which persuaded the Quaid-e-Azam in 1934 to return from England and lead the Muslims of the Indo-Pakistan Sub- continent in their struggle for constitutional rights and it was in his letters to the Quaid-e-Azarn that he elaborated his scheme in its political as well as cultural context. He succeeded in convincing the Quaid-e-Azam that Pakistan was the only solution to the political problems of the Muslims of India, and it was on the foundations laid by 1qbal that the Muslim League's historic Pakistan Resolution of 1940 was based.
Thus, lqbal gave the blue-print for Pakistan. But the role he played in promoting an intellectual revolution among Muslims of the lndo-Pakistan Sub-continent is even more important.
He was a profound thinker who believed in dynamism, and throughout his poetry and prose he placed the greatest emphasis on 'action', interpreting it as 'movement'. Some of his epoch making poems are 'Shikwa', 'Jawab-e-Shikwa', 'Shama aur Shair', 'Asrar-o-Ramooz'. His genius is manifest in literary masterpieces like 'Payame mashhq'. 'Bange Dira'. 'Zabure Ajam', 'Bale Jibril', 'Zarb-e-Kalim', 'Pas Che-Bayad Kard Aee Aqwame 'Sharq' and 'Armughan-e-Hijaz'. Of all his masterpieces 'Javid Nama' could truly be regarded as lqbal's Magnum opus.
He believed, on the one hand, in the emancipation and freedom of the Muslims of the lndo-Pakistan Sub-continent and on the other, he argued for the unity of Muslim nations all-over the world. lqbal's political philosophy is not atomistic but organic in that it implied the formation of an association of the Muslim countries to better their own lot and be the upholder of peace and justice throughout the World. His verses in Urdu and Persian and his monumental treatises have been translated into almost all the important languages of the world and found wide recognition in Iran, Turkey, Egypt, England, France, Germany, Italy, USSR etc.
He died on April 21, 1938 at Lahore and was laid to rest near Badshahi Mosque. An academy named after him has been established by the Government of Pakistan to Promote and disseminate the messages and teachings of Allama Iqbal. Date of Issue (November 09, 2002)

Nishan-e-Haider Series. (2002-9)

1. LANCE NAIK MUHAMMAD MAHFUZ (SHAHEED), NISHAN-E-HAIDER:
Born in Pind Malikan (now Mahfuzabad, Rawalpindi District) on October 25, 1944, Muhammad Mahfuz joined the Army on October 25, 1962. When war broke out in 1971, Lance Naik Mahfuz was serving in "A" Company of 15 Punjab Regiment deployed on the Wagah-Attari Sector. On the night of December 17-18, his company was assigned the task of occupying Phul Kanjri village located in the section. Platoon No. 3, to which Lance Naik Mahfuz belonged, was the forward unit in the assault and had to face torrential volleys of enemy fire from concrete Pill boxes. When the Company was about 70 yards from the Indian position, it was pinned down by unceasing frontal and cross fire from automatic weapons of the enemy. With the break of dawn, the enemy artillery also opened up. Fighting like a man possessed, Mahfuz, whose machine-gun was destroyed by an enemy shell, took over a light machine-gun from a gunner who had already fallen and advanced towards an enemy bunker from which automatic fire had inflicted heavy casualties on his Company. Wounded in the legs by shell splinters, he continued to fire, dragging himself forward. At the bunker he got up with almost superhuman effort and pounced on the enemy and was hit at point-blank range. His weapon dropped from his hand, but despite being unarmed and mortally wounded, he caught hold of an Indian Soldier and began to strangle him when another Indian bayoneted him to death.
After the ceasefire, the Commander of the enemy admitted to his Pakistani counter-part in a meeting that the like of the courage and tenacity displayed by Lance Naik Mahfuz had seldom been witnessed before.
2. SAWAR MUHAMMAD HUSSAIN (SHAHEED), NISHAN-E-HAIDER:
Born in Dhok Pir Bakhsh (now Dhok Muhammad Hussain Janjua) on June 18, 1949, Sawar Muhammad Hussain joined the Army on September 3, 1966 and was trained as a driver. When war broke out in 1971, he was in 20 Lancers. Though only a driver, he took active part in every battle his unit was engaged in. He would take over a machine-gun and fire on the enemy, unmindful of any danger no matter how grave. On December 5, 1971, he went from trench to trench delivering ammunition to our men in the Zafarwal-Shakargarh Area, braving intense shelling and direct fire from enemy tanks and infantry. On the following day, he went out with four fighting patrols and undertook most hazardous missions. On December 10, he spotted the enemy digging in near village Harar Khurd along our Minefield and informed the second- in-command of his unit. He moved, on his own initiative, from one anti-tank gun to another directing the crew to fire accurately at enemy tanks, and was thus responsible for the destruction of sixteen enemy tanks. At 1600 hours on December 10, while directing fire from one of our recoilless rifles, he was hit on the chest by a burst of machine-gun fire from an enemy tank and thus died in action. Date of Issue (September 06, 2002)

Mohammad Aly Rangoonwala.(2002-8)

Mohammad Aly Rangoonwala a philanthropist was born on May 20th 1924 in Rangoon. His father had trading and industrial activities in Rangoon, Calcutta, Madras, Colombo, Singapore, Penang, Sourbaya and Batavia. At the outbreak of World War II all investments were lost and the family moved to Bombay. The young Mohammad Aly Rangoonwala quickly re-established the family business and became well known amongst the Bombay business community.
In 1946, his involvement with the Pakistan movement gathered momentum and he worked closely with Mr. ABDULLAH H. HAROON to encourage Muslims to establish business in Pakistan. He was in contact with Mr. Mohammad Ali Jinnah who laid the foundation of the first edible oil refinery in Pakistan at Karachi, which M. A. Rangoonwala established with his associates. M. A. Rangoonwala was given the honour of providing the 'kafan' for the burial of Mr. M. A. Jinnah and also participated in performing the last rites.
M.A. Rangoonwala was a pioneer in the edible oil industry in Pakistan and prior to nationalization, had the largest group of edible oil refineries in Asia. He pioneered bulking terminals and cosmetics manufacturing in Pakistan. His knowledge of edible oils was amply put to test after nationalization when he participated with the Malaysian Government in the edible oil industry in Malaysia. He also established business organizations and charitable trusts in Europe and the Far East.
His contribution in the establishment of trade and industry in Pakistan is well known and was responsible for the Pakistan Trade Bodies Ordinance 1960. He was the Founder President of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Founder and President of the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Chairman, National Bank of Pakistan, President of the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris. Founder and Chairman of the World Memon Foundation, Member of the Stanford Research Institute, International Trustee of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Trust and Founder and Life President of the Dhoraji Association. He was a founder member of the Karachi Stock Exchange, amongst the first Directors of the State Bank of Pakistan, Trustee, Karachi Port Trust, Trustee, Hamdard Foundation and other public and private organizations in Pakistan and abroad.
M. A. Rangoonwala had a passion for philanthropy, social work and education for the masses. In 1963, he established the V.M. Public School in Karachi in memory of his late father V.M. Gany and in 1967, the Zuleikhabai V.M. Gany Rangoonwala Community Centre and Trust as a public charitable institute in memory of his late mother. In all his philanthropic organizations, his motto has always been "Service to Humanity". The objectives of his charitable organizations are to help in the education and upliftment of indigent and deserving persons regardless of race and religion.
The concept of the Community Centre, which he pioneered at the Rangoonwala Community Centre in Karachi became a model concept for Community Centres not only in Pakistan but internationally. Today, the World Memon Foundation Community Centre in Husainabad, Karachi has in attendance over 16,000 ladies per quarter who come for vocational training and adult education.
In the 1960s his public and private activities earned him the Sitara-e-Khidmat from the Government of Pakistan; Das Grosse Verdienst Kreutz from the German Government; the Order of the Silver Palm from the Boys Scout Organization, the International Businessman Award from the Stanford Research Institute and many others.
He worked to the very last and when he knew that his mortal frame would no longer be able to support his mind, he laid down and passed away peacefully at his home in Karachi on Friday 12th June 1998. May his soul rest in peace. Ameen! Date of Issue (August 31, 2002)

World Summit on Sustainable Development. (2002-7)

Background:- The World Summit on Sustainable Development is scheduled to be held in Johannesburg, South Africa from 26 August - 04 September 2002. This Summit will review progress made since the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1992. In adopted Agenda 21 and principles popularly known as Rio Declaration Agenda 21 and the principles contained in the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development established a comprehensive approach to the achievement of sustainable development, Pakistan had the honour of being the Chairman of the G-77 during the Rio Conference in 1992.
The Rio Declaration had proclaimed that the sole purpose of sustainable development is the promotion of human welfare. To achieve this objective Agenda 21 called for a global partnership based on the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities. At Rio, the international community had emphatically called for the elimination of unsustainable patterns of production and consumption. Commitments were made to provide funds and environmentally sound technologies to developing countries to ensure their development and poverty eradication. It was also agreed that environmental policies detrimental to economic and social development would be firmly eschewed.
The World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD)
The World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) being held in Johannesburg, South Africa from 26 August - 04 September 2002 will be attended by over 65,000 high level delegates including the head of States and the governments, as well as, a large number of representatives from inter-governmental, non-governmental and private sectors. The Summit will take stock of the progress made in the 10 years since the UNCED in Rio de Janeiro and seek to reach agreement on further concrete steps to implement sustainable development. The Summit will also provide a unique opportunity for states to reaffirm their commitment to the principles of sustainable development reflected in Agenda 21 and range of negotiated multi-lateral treaties.
This Summit will have far reaching consequences in the determination of long term development strategies. Pakistan views the international community to be a partner in effort to achieve sustainable development by implementing the Rio consensus faithfully and fulfilment of the pledges made at the Rio Summit. Pakistan looks forward for the creation of an enabling environment for the developing countries to promote investment and growth to help eradicate poverty and to attain sustainable development globally.Date of Issue (August 26, 2002)

55th Independence Day Celebrations "Tehreek-e-Pakistan Key Mujahid" (2002-6)

NOOR US SABAH BEGUM OF SHERPUR (1908-1978)
Noor us Sabah Begum was born on April 2, 1908 in Rampur State in the then United Provinces in a Yusufzai Pathan family.
2. On December 24, 25,1920 she was married to Mohammad Zaheer uddin Khan, a scion of the illustrous SHERPUR family. So all of a sudden she became a member of UP's ruling aristocracy - the ruling class of undivided India in UP. In 1911 Mohammad Zaheeruddin Khan joined the Congress and later on the Khilafat Movement and thereby brought the Sherpur family into the vortex of the Freedom Movement. A more important revolution took place in the life of Noor us Sabah Begum in 1922 when following her husband she joined the Khilafat Movement and on his advice met Bi Amman - the great mother of Maulana Mohammad Ali Jouhar. This step changed her life style. In the past in Sherpur her clothes, shoes, perfume, coats etc; were imported from London and she lived the Life of a Princess of Sherpur, but after joining the Khilafat Movement she changed her entire life style and started wearing Khaddar clothes and even her bed sheets, pillow cases ete were of Khaddar.
3. The Pakistan movement entered SHERPUR in 1937 and she started taking active interest in the All India Muslim League.
4. Meanwhile because of the education of her children, she shifted to New Delhi in 1941 and started taking part in the social activities of women in Delhi. In early 1945 after a meeting with the Quaid-e-Azam she was appointed first the Secretary and then the President of the New Delhi Muslim League.
5. It was one of her greatest achievements that with the motivation of Begum Mohammad Ali, wife of Maulana Mohammad Ali Jouhar - the only women member of the Working Committee of the All India Muslim League, that she brought the women's Muslim League from the confines of the homes of the wives of the Muslim bureaucrats of New Delhi, who were afraid to take part in the Pakistan movement, to the common Muslim women of old Delhi; so the women's Muslim League became a mass organization of the Muslim women of Delhi. And Noor us Sabah Begum became a mass speaker. Obviously her training in Sherpur and the status of the Sherpur Family was also an important factor. Subsequently she became the Secretary and ultimately the President at the time of partition of the Delhi Provincial Muslim League.
6. In February 1947 she went to Lahore to take part in the anti-khizr Hayat Movement and was soon arrested. DAWN, - the Muslim League's organ - carried her photo on the front page.
7. Since Begurn Maulana Mohammad Ali was the sole Muslim Woman to be a member of the working committee of the All India Muslim League - The Muslim League had constituted a committee for the women's Muslim League on all India level. Noor us Sabah Begum was elected as a member of this All India Committee in 1945 from Delhi.
8. Noor us Sabah Begum migrated to Pakistan on September 17, 1947 as her name was on the hit list of the Hindus. In Pakistan she became a member of the working committee of the Sindh Muslim League and the Council of the All Pakistan Muslim League. However, after the imposition of Martial Law in 1958 she gave up politics and concentrated on writing.
9. She wrote innumerable articles for 'Jang' and other newspapers and periodicals. Besides she wrote several literary books. 10. Apart from the above, The Prime Minister of Pakistan posthumously gave her a gold medal on August 14, 1992. 11. Such were the women created Pakistan, and Noorus Sabah Begum sacrificed the glitter, the gold and the glamour of Sherpur for the sake of Pakistan.
She died in Karachi, in Sherpar House, Leaving seven children behind her on July 14, 1978. Raees Amrohvi wrote a "Qata" on her death, which was published in Jang, Karachi the next day.
ISMAIL I. CHUNDRIGAR (1897 -1960)
Born in 1897 in Ahmedabad. He passed his B.A. & L.L.B. examinations from Bombay University and joined the Ahmedabad Bar in 1920 and became a member of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation in 1924. He became one of the most prominent Advocates at Ahmedabad and was called upon by the Quaid to shift to Bombay when, as a Member of the public he gave his views for formulating reaction of the Muslim League to the Government of India Act 1935. The Quaid requested him to draft the official Muslim League Resolution, in spite of many senior and experienced Leaguers being present on the dais and in the front rows. He joined the Bombay Bar and in 1937 was elected to the Bombay Legislative Assembly of which he became Deputy Leader in 1938 and Leader in 1946. He was President of the Bombay Muslim League from 1940 to 1946 and a Member of the All-India Muslim League Working Committee from 1943 to 1947. His part in collection of Quaid-e-Azam Fund and securing hundred percent of Leaguers to the Bombay Provincial Assembly will long be remembered. Throughout his political career he remained in the Muslim League.
2. It is his work in Bombay that marked him out for selection in the interim Government of India in 1946 and thereafter in the first Pakistan Cabinet. On the Muslim League joining the interim Government in 1946. Mr. Chundrigar became the second senior most Ministers, being next to Mr. Liaquat Ali Khan, from Among the Muslim Leaguers.
3. In 1957, the formation of Cabinet by Mr. Chundrigar with him at the helm of affairs was on basis of agreement with Republican party on two main points, i.e. that separate electorates and One Unit will be retained. He held various high posts after partition, in Pakistan such as Minister for Communication, Industries and Works, Ambassador of Pakistan in Kabul, Governor NWFP and Governor Punjab and piloted the Constitution of 1956. He was Prime Minister from October to December 1957 and was the only Prime Minister who resigned on a point of principle, rather then gives in and maneuver to stay on in power. At the time of dissolution of the National Assembly in 1958, he was leader of the Opposition.
4. He fought many a legal battle to maintain rule of law in Pakistan. The famous Moulvi Tamizuddin Khan case was conducted by him with dignity. He was not only a great efficient lawyer and statesman of international repute but also upholder of the cause of the noble profession of law. He was a man of clear vision and sound and upright thinking. One of the trusted lieutenants of Quaid-e-Azam, he was among the top lawyers of Pakistan and was the President of Pakistan Bar Association, Chairman of Prices Commission and of the Company Law Commission.
5. So steadfast in his outlook, so sincere in his motives, so able in advocacy. As an Advocate, he was well versed in the principles of law. He had an analytical frame of mind, which helped him in presentation of his case. He would not conceal a point which was against him but would meat it.
6. To junior members of the bar, he was an example to follow and a kind friend. To the bench his utmost desire and effort always to help it to do justice between parties. He died on 26th September 1960.
Courtesy: Mr. Akbar I. Chundrigar, The Son of Mr. I. I. Chundrigar.
HABIB IBRAHIM RAHIMTOOLA (1912 - 1991)
RAHIMTOOLA, Habib lbrahim was educated at Xaviars College Bombay, where he got a B.A. and then did his LL.B in March 1935, aged 23 years. He was founder President of The Bombay Provincial Muslim Chamber of Commerce 1944-47. President of Federation Muslim Chambers of Commerce and Industries, New Delhi 1947-48, Mr. Habib Rahimtoola worked whole heartedly and canvassed for the Muslim League in the 1946 elections and was President of Bombay Provincial Muslim League Parliamentary Board for Local Bodies (Selection of candidates for election) 1945-47. He had the honour of actively canvassing for the Quaid-e-Azams own election to the Central Assemblies from Bombay. He was President Bombay Muslim Students Union 1946-48.
2. The Quaid then nominated him to be the Senior Nominee of the Muslims to the Government of India Food Delegation to the U.K. and USA in 1946, he used this opportunity to convince the Governments of U.K. and USA about the future Pakistan state and the need of a separate homeland for the Muslims of India. Later he was nominated by Quaid- e-Azam to represent the Muslims of India as Alternate Leader Govt. of India Delegation to ITEC (GATT) Geneva, 1947, and then again as Alternate Leader Govt. of India Delegation to the SC Conference in Paris 1947.
3. Mr. Habib lbrahim Rahimtoola was sent to receive the Independence of Pakistan formally from the British Government and he had the honour of formally unfurling the Pakistani Flag for the first time in its history abroad. He stayed on as Pakistan's first High Commissioner to the UK from 1947 to 1952 & The Quaid-e-Azam wrote to him "I have been following you very closely and I am glad to say that you are doing very well"…….."in your onerous mission as our representative to Britain". Mr. Rahimtoola was appointed as the Pakistani Ambassador to France from 1952 to 1953. In 1953 Mr. Rahimtoola was recalled from Paris to become the Governor of Sindh which post he held till 1954, when he was sent as Governor of the Punjab.
4. At the end of 1955 Prime Minister Bogra asked him to join the Federal Cabinet as Minister of Commerce. Then in Prime Minister Chowdhry Mohammed Ali's Cabinet he was Federal Minister of both Commerce and Industries,. He was recalled by President Ayub to solve Karachi's problems in 1958. As was Chairman of Karachi Improvement Trust, Water Co-ordination Council and Karachi Development Authority, when both the Water and Housing problems were solved he left in 1960.
5. President Yahya asked him to head the Pakistan Red Cross in 1969, and he was asked to continue by Prime Minister Bhutto. He resigned in 1972 after completing his mission that was that the last Prisoner of War was returned to Pakistani soil. He was a member of the Govt. of Pakistan Committee for the Quaid-e-Azam Centenary Celebrations 1976.
6. Prime Minister Junejo awarded him the Pakistan Movement Gold Medal in 1982. Mr. Rahimtoola was a Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society. A Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, a Fellow of the Royal Common wealth Society. He was also received the Melvin Jones Award from the USA and the First Class order of the Sacred Treasure from the Emperor of Japan. He died on 2nd January 1991 at Karachi.
Coutlesy: Begum Zubaida Habib Rahimtoola (S.K)
QAZI MUREED AHMED (1913 -1989)
Qazi Mureed Ahmed was born in Village Mardwal of soon Valley (Skesar) Distt. Khushab in the Awan Tribe in 1913. After doing his intermediate, he studied Fiqah, Hadees and Quran from lshaat-e-Islam College, Lahore.
2. After Pakistan Resolution of 23rd March 1940 he joined Muslim League and remained associated with it till his death, inspite of numerous trials and greeds. Qazi Sahib and Khizar Hayat Tiwana belonged to one constituency but their ways and thoughts were apart. Qazi Sahib was Freedom fighter and Tiwana Sahib Unionist. Mr. Khizar confiscated all the household of and sealed the House of Qazi Mureed Ahmed. Apart from this made fabricated cases including murder case.
3. He remained convener of Muslim League from 1943 to 1951 and on the orders of Quaid-e-Azam established branches of Muslim League in Punjab. He also advocated two Nations Theory and Pakistan Movement in the province of NWFP and Sindh. For this crime of patriotism he was sent to jail for five times and even the news of creation of Pakistan was given to him in Shahpur Jail.
4. After creation of Pakistan, he was elected Member of Punjab Assembly and then of West Pakistan Assembly in 1951. He was appointed President of Sargodha District for Khatm-e-Nabuwat Movement. Qazi Sahib's in-house and outside speaches made such an effect that he was house arrested for 6 months in his Village. After union of West Pakistan Dr. Khan Sahib made Republican Party within no time and Muslim League Members sold their souls like toys in Bazar. Qazi Sahib was offered Ministry, Ten square of Land and Rs. Fifty thousand cash but instead of accepting this offer he alongwith six other members of the Assembly submitted an affidavit in the Assembly. Editorial of Kohistan daily "as bargaining of the soul" and Qudrat-ullah Shabab's "Shahab Name" are Witnesses of this incident. He was chosen to reorganize Muslim League in 1958 alongwith 11 others. In 1971 he contested Election of National Assembly on the ticket of P.N.A. remained member of Central Executive Committee under Pir Pagara's Presidentship. He was awarded Gold Medal in recognition of his services for creation of Pakistan. Also remained Vice President of Punjab Muslim League. After leading simple and prime life died on 4 October 1989. Date of Issue (August 14, 2002)

Fruits of Pakistan Depicting "Mango" . (2002-5)

Mango is the fruit par excellence of Subcontinent. Mango (Mangifera indica) belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. It has had a prominent position among the commercial fruits of Pakistan. Mango varieties have been known for attractive colours, savouring smell, delightful taste and high nutritive value. Mango fruits contain 10-20% sugar, an important source of vitamin A and C and contain vitamin B. Small amount of protein, Iron, Calcium and Phosphorus are also present. Ripe fruits are mainly eaten fresh, but are also utilized in preparing squashes, jams and other preserves. Young and unripe fruits are used in pickles.
Pakistan is an important mango growing country in the world. The soil and climatic conditions of Pakistan are highly suitable for mango cultivation. According to FAO production year book of 2001, Pakistan stands FIFTH among mango growing countries of the World.
Mango enjoys second position after citrus in Pakistan. It is grown in the province of Punjab over an area of 48413 hectares out of 94121 hectares in the country (MINFAL 99- 2000). Most of the remaining acreage is planted in Sindh. At present, (1999-2000) the total annual production of fruits in Pakistan is 58,46,342 tons. Even if all of this production reaches to the consumers, per head per day availability of fruit is meagre 114 grams. Fresh and processed fruits and vegetables export make up less than 1 percent of Pakistan's total export. That is a matter of concern when the need for diversification of export is badly felt.
The mango from Pakistan is well known for its taste and quality abroad. More than 53,000 tons of mango is exported to neighbouring and European countries, i.e. Afghanistan, Bahrain, Dubai, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, United Kingdom, France, Malayasia and Singapore etc. fetching foreign exchange. Langra, Dusehri, Samar Behisht, Chaunsa, Anwar Ratol are important varieties grown in Punjab. Sindhri, Bagan Pali, Suwarneka, Neelum and Gulab Khas are leading ones from Sindh.
Pakistan exported fruit worth $ 78.71 millions in 2000- 2001, despite the continuous neglect of fruit tree management. This amount of foreign exchange can be doubled with proper care and management of orchards. To improve the production, there are two ways, either by doubling the area under the fruit crops which is impossible, or by increasing the production per hectare. Per hectare production can only be increased if we know the proper management of trees. Unfortunately the mango crop has not been paid deserved attention. Date of Issue (June 18, 2002)

10th Anniversary of Pak-Kyrgyz Diplomatic Relations. (2002-4)

The deep and abiding ties have flourished between the two countries since the creation of the Kyrgyz Republic. The people of Pakistan have a special attachment for the people of Kyrgyzstan. It is a matter of deep satisfaction for both Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan that over the last 10 years the friendly relations between our two countries have been blossoming.
Pakistan extended diplomatic recognition to the Kyrgyz Republic on December 20, 1991. A Protocol for the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan was signed on May 10, 1992. Pakistan's diplomatic resident Mission at Ambassadorial level was established at Bishkek in August 1995.
There have been high level visits from both sides in last ten years. In December 2000, the Chief Executive of Pakistan extended an invitation to Kyrgyz President Askar Akayev to pay a State visit to Pakistan. The invitation was accepted by the President of Kyrgyzstan.
Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan co-operate with each other in various fields for the promotion of trade and economic relations between the two countries. A few Pakistan nationals have established their business concerns in the fields of hoteling, pharmacy and tourism in Kyrgyz Republic.
During the visit of Minister of State for Economic Affairs in December 1991, an export credit of US$ 10 million was offered to Kyrgyzstan for the establishment of pharmaceutical factory at Bishkek. An agreement was signed in May 1993. On the request of Kyrgyzstan, keeping in view of friendly and brotherly relations with Kyrgyzstan, the Government of Pakistan rescheduled the loan repayment and prolonged its payment for the next six years. An agreement on rescheduling was signed accordingly.
One of the achievements in the economic co-operation between the two countries is the opening of the branch of the National Bank of Pakistan at Bishkek. The main aim of the bank is to boost the trade and economic relations between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan. The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan took a decision to issue the license for the branch of the National Bank of Pakistan to open the accounts for local individuals from January 1, 2002. Before, the National Bank of Pakistan was authorized to open the accounts for the companies and organizations only. Within one year after the opening, this branch has become the profit-earning unit. After some time, the bank would be able to extend small credit facility to the local population. The National Bank of Pakistan has also offered a regular training programme for the Kyrgyz Bankers.
Pakistan is extending all possible help for Kyrgyz nationals under the Technical Assistance programme in the field of education, diplomacy, banking, English language and postal services, etc.
More than 200 Pakistani students are enrolled at various educational institutions in Kyrgyzstan on self-finance basis. Some of the medical students have already completed their studies and returned to Pakistan.
The leadership of the Kyrgyz Republic has demonstrated keen interest to have more bilateral cultural cooperation and people to people contact by establishing sister city relationship with the cities of Kyrgyzstan and Pakistan. Establishment of sister city relationships between Quetta- Bishkek and Osh-Sialkot are under consideration by the two sides.
Both the countries have expressed their desire to conclude a Cultural Agreement with the aim of developing relations and mutual understanding between Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan. A draft Cultural Agreement is under consideration.
A draft Agreement between APP and "Kabar" news agency of Kyrgyzstan is also under consideration.
The Government of Pakistan has agreed to present a printing press to be used for production of literawre solely for Islamic purposes to the Muftiat of Kyrgyzstan.
Pakistan and Kyrgyz brothers and sisters are like one family and Pakistani people staying there feel at home. Our ancient roots are identical. We are united with the bonds of history. There are many proofs to it in the form of the similarity of languages, cultures, traditions and customs etc.
Being the members of OIC and ECO, Pakistan and Kyrgyzstan support each other on various global and regional issues as well as during the elections to the key posts in the international organizations. Date of Issue (May 27, 2002)

50th Anniversary of Pakistan-Japan Relations - 2002.(2002-3)

Pakistan enjoys cordial friendly relations with Japan. Both countries have always demonstrated mutual trust and propitious respect for each other's concerns and interests, which has helped evolve this close friendship of the last 50 years into a dependable partnership in the new century.
2. Despite having been through various phases and having witnessed some vicissitudes, Pakistan-Japan relations have kept growing to the mutual benefit of the two countries. Until the late 1950s, the relationship was essentially that of two developing countries. Pakistan, being the main source of raw cotton for Japan's textile industry, was one of its major trading partners. Japanese spindles on the other hand helped build our textile industry. In the 1960s, Japan, however, re-emerged as a modern industrialized nation and started extending Yen loan assistance to Pakistan. The Japanese assistance was doubled to Pakistan following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Japan, since then, has been Pakistan's major source of economic assistance, a leading trading partner and an important source of foreign investment.
3. Japan's economic assistance has played a very important role in the development of Pakistan's economic and social infrastructure. The major projects, which have been funded by the Government of Japan, include the Indus Highway Project, a number of power projects in various provinces of Pakistan, Rural Roads Construction Project and the Children Hospital PIMS lslamabad Project. Presently the Kohat Tunnel Project and the Ghazi Brotha Dam Project are being completed with the help of the Japanese assistance.
4. There has been a regular exchange of high level visits between the two countries. Besides, both the countries have extended each other frequent support in international fora on a reciprocal basis and a growing mutual understanding has marked the bilateral consultations. Pakistan and Japan have therefore come to share perceptions on a number of key regional and global issues.
5. Pakistan and Japan had established formal diplomatic relations on 28th April 1952. The 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, being jointly celebrated by the two countries this year, is a significant landmark in the history of this friendship.
6. A number of high profile, ceremonial, commercial and cultural events have been organized to mark this historic occasion. The visit of the President of Pakistan to Japan during the first half of the year would be the cornerstone of these commemorative events. Other notable activities would include Export Promotion Bureau's participation in two trade fairs and a Single Country Exhibition in Japan, organization of a Fashion and Design Show and an Investment seminar in Tokyo in collaboration with BOI, the 'Gandhara Art from Pakistan' Exhibition with the assistance of NHK of Japan, and issuance of commemorative stamps by the Post Offices of the two countries. Besides, exchange of visits between sports teams, artists and youth delegations of the two countries, and a "Tourism in Pakistan" Seminar along-with a cultural show, in Tokyo will also be organized during the year. The Japanese Embassy is lslamabad is similarly planning to host a number of commemorative events in Pakistan. Date of Issue (April 28, 2002)

Medicinal Plants of Pakistan. DEPICTING "HYSSOP" .(2002-2)

Zufa Hyssop was known to the early Greeks, Romans and Hebrews as an aromatic herb. It was described by AL-Biruni under the name of Zufa Yabis, the leaves of the herb resembles Sa'tar but are considered stronger in action. According to AI-Biruni, it is brought from Rome and is for that reason designated as sa'tar Rumi (the Ruman Synonyms are ussufus, safunis and Husuffun). I bn Masawaih Says that Zufa bears a different and distinct colour. Its leaves are like those of maiden hair (fern) and it is employed in chest complaints. Sharbat Zufa (Made from dried Hyssopus officinalis) is a reputed anti-asthmatic, anti-phlegmatic and anti-catarrhal preparation of Unani medicine. Hyssop was at one time official in some pharma-copoe-ias of Europe and its medicinal properties are described as akin to Nepeta ciliaris, Benth. It blooms in summer season.
HYSSOP HYSSOPUS OFFICINALIS LINN ZUFA(Labiatae / Lamiaceae)
Flowers: Bright-blue
Parts used: Dried or Fresh leaves, flowering tops, flowers and branches.
Pharmacological Action:
Stimulant, carminative, pectoral, deobstruent, antiphlegmatic, expectorant, diaphoretic, resolvent, emmenagogue. Hyssop being resolvent and expectorant of phlegm from pectoral region, is useful against dry cough, bronchial asthma, phlegmatic cough, acute pneumonia and catarrhal affections of the respiratory tract. An infusion or tea prepared from the plant is effective in nervous, pulmonary, digestive, uterine and urinary troubles. Sap of the leaves made into syrup with sugar and honey is used as vermifuge for round worms. The crushed herb is applied as a resolvent and vulnerary. Steeped in hot water, it is used for fomentation of wounds, sprains and strains, and muscular rheumatism. The infusion or syrup is also regarded useful in hysteria and colic, sore-throat, amenorrhoea, and induration of liver and spleen. Date of Issue (February 15, 2002)

Samandar Khan Samandar. (2002-1)

Janas Khan better known as Samandar Khan Sarnandar was born in village Badrashee, Tehsil Nowshera in January 1 901 - He turned toward Poetry at the tender age of 6 years when he started reciting his own "Tapas". Initially, he was introduced to traditional Masjid School, later on he was admitted in government primary school at Nowshera Cantt. He received formal education upto class IV.
He started to earn his livelihood as labourer during his teens, he worked as orderly Peon, Cook, Butler, Kochwan and Magician. During all this time he did not leave his first love of poetry and kept on writing quality prose and poetry.
In the year 1929 he became a member of "Tehreek-I-Islam-I-Afaghanan" later on he worked as 'Khudaiee Khidmatgar:, he also worked in 'Khaksar Movement' and finally joined Muslim League.
He joined Pashto Service of Radio, Peshawar Station in 1943 as scriptwriter and authored innumerable talk shows, he also wrote more than 56 Radio Dramas.
His published and unpublished Poetry work consists of about 1,13,000 verses, more than half of which was published in 10 volumes with the title "Da Tawheed Trang". He also authored several thousand pages of Prose. Special mention of his literary genius is due to his Pashto translation of "Asrar-i-Khudee" and "Ramooz-i-Bekhudee" by Allama lqbal. His contribution in the field on "Naat" is substantial.
He got married in 1935 and had children. He died on 17th January 1990.
Two students of Peshawar University got their degrees of M.Phil (1995) and Phd (1997) by publishing research paper on his work. Date of Issue (January 17, 2002)