"New Political Map of Pakistan - 2020" December 25, 2020 (2020-11)

1. After revoking Article 370 on 5 August 2019, India issued new Political Map which included Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJ&K) and Gilgit Baltistan (GB) as part of Indian occupied territories. Apropos, Government of Pakistan approved new Political Map of Pakistan on 4 August 2020 while considering following aspects:-

a. New map should reflect aspirations of the people of Pakistan - a reference for future generations.

b. To show Pakistan's stated position with respect to Jammu & Kashmir, Siachin and Sir Creek.

c. To highlight illegal occupation of Jammu & Kashmir by India.

d. Correction / reiteration of historic stance on Jammu & Kashmir while projecting Pakistan's perspective both inland & abroad -The Kashmir cause.

2. To commemorate this historical milestone, it is recommended that a special postal stamp depicting new Political Map of Pakistan be issued on 25 December 2020. The stamp shall depict the changes made in the new Political Map of Pakistan as elaborated below:-

a. Complete Jammu & Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan shown as part of Pakistan with International Border marked accordingly.

b. Complete Jammu & Kashmir including Gilgit Baltistan (including Indian Occupied Parts) shown in one distinct. colour.

c. Gilgit-Baltistan regional boundary with rest of Jammu & Kashmir drawn distinctly.

d. Following annotation written within Indian Occupied Part:-

Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (Disputed Territory-Final Status to be decided in line with relevant UNSC Resolutions)

e. Line of Control (LOC) marked in red dotted line in accordance with own stance with respect to line north of point NJ 9842 up to Karakoram Pass. Annotation indicating LOC as under:-

"The red dotted line represents approximately the line of control in Jammu & Kashmir.  he state of Jammu & Kashmir and its accession is yet to be decided through plebiscite under the relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions."

f. A word AJK written along LOC with following annotation:-

"AJK stands for Azad Jammu & Kashmir as defined in the AJK Interim Constitution Act, 1974."

g. Working Boundary marked with appropriate annotation. h. Annotation for FRONTIER UNDEFINED added:-

"Actual boundary in the area where remark FRONTIER UNDEFINED appears, would ultimately be decided by the sovereign authorities concerned after the final settlement of the Jammu & Kashmir dispute."

i. Border with India on Sir Creek reflected as continuous riband Key "International boundary along the eastern bank of the Creek" added.

Pakistan Post is issuing a Speical Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination on "New Political Map of Pakistan - 2020" December 25, 2020.

Pink Ribbon - Breast Cancer Awareness. November 11, 2020 (2020-10)

Statistics of Breast Cancer in Pakistan

a.    1 out of 9 women is at risk of having breast cancer in Pakistan

b.    40,000 women die from breast cancer every year in Pakistan

c.    Average 90,000 cases are diagnosed each year

d.    Over 10 million in Pakistan are at risk of Breast Cancer

e.    Pakistan has the highest rate of Breast Cancer in the whole of Asia.

f.     Breast Cancer's prevalence (38.5%) is highest amongst all cancers, in Pakistan.

g.    Around 70% of Breast Cancer patients come for treatment at stage III, therefore survival rate is very low in Pakistan.

h.    If detected at an early stage, the chance of surviving increases by up to 90%.

INTRODUCTION:- Pink Ribbon Pakistan is a volunteer-driven, non-funded, self-sustained and the only organization in the country which is dedicatedly working on the issue of breast cancer with nationwide outreach since 2004.

We strive to significantly reduce breast cancer mortality in the country by creating widespread awareness through community engagement on prevention, early detection and increased access to treatment.

Our scope of work is holistic from strategic interventions to public awareness including patient-aid and service delivery.

To provide relief to poor people, we are setting up a dedicated Breast Cancer Hospital where deserving patients will get free of cost treatment under one roof.

VISION:- We are envisioning a future where breast cancer victims will be treated with world  lass healthcare technology. We are setting up Pakistan's first dedicated BREAST CANCER HOSPITAL in Lahore which will, significantly, reduce breast cancer mortality in Pakistan. In our Journey towards a cancer free Pakistan, we are committed to build more breast cancer hospitals in the future.

MISSION:- Our mission is to prevent and cure breast cancer by creating widespread awareness through community engagement on prevention, early detection and increased access to treatment.

BACKGROUND:- At the outset in 2004, talking about Breast Cancer was not easy in the society where this fatal disease was largely associated with female sexuality, but Pink Ribbon campaigned so effectively that not only the taboo was broken and Breast Cancer was included in the narrative of mainstream media but also the government acknowledged the cause and made Breast Cancer a priority in national health agenda.

This impressive campaign of spreading Breast Cancer awareness and building alliances with public and corporate sector organization led Pink Ribbon win IPRA Frontline Golden World Award. Pink Ribbon continued its struggle over the years, achieving one milestone after another. Gradually, we moved from campaigning and advocacy to service delivery and launched National Breast Cancer Screen Program through Mobile Mammogram Units.

Realizing the utmost privation of quality healthcare facilities for Breast Cancer, Pink Ribbon laid the foundation of Pakistan's first dedicated Breast Cancer Hospital in 2017. The Hospital will be operational by June 2019. Support Pink Ribbon in this redemptive cause.

REACHING OUT TO THE COMMUNITY:- We have empowered 12,000,000 women through community-based education on breast health, provided free clinical breast examination to 29,000 symptomatic patients, free mammograms to 3,700 of the poorest-of-the-poor women and educated at least 1,326,658, young girls, through direct interaction in 200 Universities and Colleges.

PROGRAMMES

Prevention:- Healthy Lifestyle Campaign (a Healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of breast cancer)

Studies shows that around 40% of breast cancer are preventable by adopting healthy lifestyle. Researches reveal that diet, nutrition and physical activity affect the cancer risk including breast cancer. Pink Ribbon's focus is now on prevention so women and girls who are at risk of developing breast cancer can be saved by this ailment.

Awareness Program:

Early Detection Campaign

Early Detection Can Save lives

Lack of awareness causes a delay in detection, that's why 70% of our women reach to hospitals at stage III of cancer leading to more deaths.

Youth Engagement Programme:- To educate young girls on breast self-examination techniques.

Community Outreach Programme:- To empower women and girls with life-saving techniques of early detection.

PINKtober:- Annual month long awareness campaign that focuses on all the stakeholders to gather maximum support for the issue of breast cancer.

Patient Support Programme

Advisory services:- We advise, support, and connect patient to a best suitable health facility.

Counseling

Emotional support

The Survivor Programme

Treatment

National Screening

Provided free mammograms to 3700 poorest of the poor women

Medical Co-Pay Assistance Programme

Setting up Pakistan's first dedicated breast cancer hospital to provide free of cost treatment to deserving patients.

Pink Ribbon - Breast Cancer Awareness, Pakistan Post is issuing a Speical Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination November 11, 2020.

75th Anniversary of United Nations. October 24, 2020 (2020-9)

The United Nations was two years old when Pakistan was born. In 1945, Fifty one nations of the world, expressed determination to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war; reaffirmed faith in fundamental human rights, dignity and worth of the human person, equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small; and determined to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom. With this preamble the United Nations Charter came into force on 24 October 1945.

Two years later, Pakistan came into being, as a democratic expression of the Muslims of South Asia, to uphold justice, promote tolerance and preserve religious and cultural identities.

The Father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, outlining the ideals of Pakistan's foreign policy, based it on the principles of the Charter of the United Nations: peace and prosperity among nations of the world; honesty and fair play in international dealings; no aggressive designs against any country or nation and material and moral support to the oppressed and suppressed peoples of the world. Guided by the vision of its founding fathers, Pakistan has engaged with the United Nations to build partnerships and alliances for the collective good. We have participated actively in discussions on a host of issues including international peace and security. human rights, disarmament, development, environment, climate change, and international law.

As the United Nations turns 75 today, Pakistan joins the international community in rejoicing its achievements and reflecting on the setbacks. Indeed, the achievements and setbacks of the United Nations are a manifestation of the success and failures of its Member States.

Pakistan was at the forefront of the United Nations' drive for decolonization that resulted in establishment of dozens of states in Asia, Africa and Latin America, based on the inalienable right to self-determination. Pakistani national delegations steered the intergovernmental endorsements of the decolonization process at relevant forums of the United Nations.

Our efforts contributed in ending the dark chapter of foreign domination and subjugation in many parts of world and helped translate the universality of the right of people to self-determination into reality.

Pakistan remains a leading Member State in United Nations' efforts to maintain international peace and security. Pakistan has been a leading troop contributor to the UN Peacekeeping Missions around the world. We have proudly contributed over 200,000 troops that have served with honor and professionalism in 46 missions over six decades. Moreover, 157 brave Pakistani peacekeepers have offered supreme sacrifice for world peace.

Pakistan has served seven terms as members of the Security Council, piloting important Resolutions and Presidential Statements. Pakistan is also a leading voice for reform of the Security Council to make it more democratic, inclusive and accountable.

Pakistan's contributions to the United Nations are as old as the country itself. The authors of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, adopted by the General Assembly in 1948, included a Pakistani woman delegate of distinction. Since then, Pakistan has helped evolve the United Nations' discourse on human rights as a member of the Human Rights Commission and later as a founding member of the Human Rights Council, where it has served four terms since its inception in 2006.

As host to the largest protracted refugee population, Pakistan has contributed immensely to the United Nations' humanitarian efforts. Pakistan is internationally recognized for hosting millions of refugees and migrants for decades and in offering opportunities for their health, education and employment. Prime Minister of Pakistan co-convened a Global Refugee Forum in 2019. Pakistan has also donated generously to the World Food Program and a number of United Nations-led humanitarian relief efforts across the globe.

In the seventy-fifth anniversary year of the UN, Pakistan is proud to be elected as President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Strengthening the development pillar of the United Nations has been a constant endeavor for Pakistan. As a founding member and Chair of the Group of 77, we have strived to amplify the voice of the developing countries in the United Nations decision-making in trade, development and finance. Pakistan's leadership of ECOSOC will be focused on ameliorating the suffering of the developing countries fighting COVID-19, and assisting in financing for Sustainable Development Goals and addressing climate change. We will also focus on sustainable infractucture development, application of advanced science and technology for sustained, efficient and sustainable growth, debt relief for developing countries and fighting illicit financial flows.

Whilst the promise of the UN-administered plebiscite in Jammu and Kashmir remains unfulfilled, the United Nations and its various bodies remain seized of the grave situation in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Pakistan continues to facilitate the UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP), a reminder of the international nature of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. Three important meetings of the Security Council, two reports by the UN High Commission for Human Rights and numerous statements and press releases by UN Experts and Mechanisms have highlighted the multiple dimensions of egregious human rights violations and precarious security situation in IIOJK, warranting urgent implementation of Security Council Resolutions. The 75th anniversary is a solemn reminder to the United Nations and international community to fulfill its promise to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to grant them their fundamental right of self-determination.

To Celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the United Nations' Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination on October 24, 2020.

Services To The Cause of Creation of Pakistan of Miangul Abdul Haq Jahanzeb Former Wali of Swat State. September 14, 2020, (2020-8)

 

Miangul Abdul Haq Jahanzeb was born on the 5th of June 1908 in Saidu Sharif, Swat to Miangul Abdul Wadood, who himself was the grandson of the Akhund of Swat, locally known as Saidu Baba, a sufi saint who was held in very high regard and respect in the area. In 1917 Swat became a formal Princely State, one of about 560 states in the then British India, with Miangul Abdul Wadood being appointed as the ruler under the title of The Wali Of Swat. Miangul Jahanzeb went to the Islamia Collegiate in Peshawar for his education and after receiving his FA degree in 1926 he was called back by his father, to assist in the administration of Swat State, In the same year the British Indian Government accorded official recognition to Swat State. In 1933 Miangul Jahanzeb was appointed the Heir Apparent (Crown Prince) by his father and was so recognized by a ceremony attended by the British Political Agent. After that Miangul Jahanzeb was made the head of the State Armed Forces and handed over Executive Authority of the State. After 1940, it was clear that The Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah was determined to create a independent Muslim State and he needed all types of resources and help from all segments of the Muslim population of the then India.

In 1947, on the appeal of The Quaid, The State of Swat donated the sum of Rupees Four lacs to the cause of the Referendum that was to be held in the then North West Frontier Province in July of that year. In acknowledgement of this contribution The Quaid wrote a letter of appreciation to the Wall of Swat dated 28th July 1947, the exhibit of which is attached. Upon the creation of Pakistan, The Quaid once again appealed to the Wali of Swat for funds to which the State of Swat responded by given a handsome donation, which is also acknowledged by The Quaid in his letter dated 2nd October 1947. This cash donation was also accompanied by material in the form of blankets for the Muhajareen.

Pakistan had inherited an ill equipped armed forces and the need to buy weapons was the dire need of the hour and as such the Government of Pakistan once again appealed to Swat State for help. In return The Wali of Swat donated the equivalent of British Pounds 12,000 towards the purchase of the most advanced fighter aircraft at the time, called FURY, for induction in the Royal Pakistan Air Force. The aircraft was subsequently named JAHANZEB. The letter of acknowledgement of the then Secretary of Defence of the Government of Pakistan is attached.

In December 1949, Miangul Abdul Haq Jahanzeb the crown prince, was elevated to be WALI of Swat upon the abdication of his father, and for the official recognition The then Prime Minister of Pakistan, Nawabzada Liaquat Ali Khan was in attendance in Swat.

The State of Swat also sent a substantial force to make up the lashkar for the liberation of Kashmir for which The Wali was given the award of Ghazi e Millat.

The Wali upon the appeal of the government of NWFP also provided teaching staff for the schools and colleges in Peshawar.

The Wali of Swat also provided the forces of The Swat State Army to fight besides the Pakistan Army in the 1965 war with India.

For his services for Pakistan, The Wali of Swat was bestowed by the Government the awards of Hilal-e-Pakistan and the Hilal-e-Quaid-e-Azam.

For the services towards education the University of Peshawar bestowed upon The Wali the Hon Degree of Doctor of Laws.

In July 1969, the State of Swat was merged with the then NWFP and in September 1987, Miangul Abdul Haq Jahanzeb passed away of natural causes.

On the services to the cause of creation of Pakistan of Miangul Abdul Haq Jahanzeb Former Wali of Swat State, Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination September 14, 2020.

Silver Jubilee of Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital & Research entre. Lahore. August 06, 2020 (2020-7)

Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SKMCH&RC) is a state-of-the-art cancer centre located in Lahore, Pakistan. SKMCH&RC, Lahore was the very first project of the Shaukat khanum Memorial Trust, which is a charitable organization established under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860 of Pakistan. The Hospital has recently completed 25 years of serving humanity and providing world-class treatment to all cancer patients, 75% of whom are underprivileged and who could not otherwise hope to access such expensive cancer treatment.

Mission Statement

To act as a model institution to alleviate the suffering of patients with cancer through the application of modern methods of curative and palliative therapy irrespective of their ability to pay, the education of health care professionals and the public and perform research into the causes and treatment of cancer.

Inspiration for making the Hospital

Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre is the brainchild of Pakitan's Cricket World Cup winning captain and now the Prime Minister of Pakistan. Mr. Imran Khan. The inspiration to build the Hospital came after his mother, Mrs. Shaukat Khanum, succumbed to cancer in 1985. During his mother's illness, he also witnessed the plight of underprivileged cancer patients in the hospital of Pakistan and deeply felt the need for a specialized cancer centre in his country. Being a developing country, where the majority do not have access to even elementary health care facilities, cancer was considered the ultimate symbol of hopelessness and almost certain death. Prior to the establishment of SKMCH&RC in Lahore, no specialisted institution for the comprehensive treatment of cancer existed in Paklistan. Imran Khan decided to embark upon the journey of realizing his dream of making cancer care accessible to the people of his country, regardless of their ability to pay. Hence, began the story of enduring love of a son for his mother and of the passion of a nation.

Fundraising

After the first one and a half year of fundraising in 1990, when Imran Khan seemed to have exhausted all his resources, he turned to school children and launched a fundraising team of "Imran's Tigers". The Tigers ended up creating history. They stopped motorists at traffic lights and went from door to door to collect funds. They not only collected funds that enabled the construction of the Hospital but also created awareness among the public for the need of the nation's first cancer hospital.

Pakistan's win under Imran Khan's captaincy in the 1992 Cricket World Cup in Melbourne helped the fundraising efforts. However, by 1994, the project was still an uphill battle and at this point, donor fatigue had even exhausted the overseas Pakistanis. The Hospital was planned to open in 1994 but by the October of the same year, US $4 million were still needed to materialize this plan.

It was at this point that Imran Khan and his team decided to test the support of the ordinary Pakistanis. They set out on a successful Mass Contact Campaign which started from the middle of November and lasted till December 28, 1994. They toured twenty-nine cities and collected US $ 5 million in six weeks from the ordinary people of Pakistan. In the mornings, Imran Khan would address school assemblies and in the evenings, he would travel through the streets. The generosity of the people of Pakistan was truly inspiring. By the December of 1994, Imran Khan himself had given almost half of what he owned to the Hospital.

During the entire first phase of construction, over a million individual donors, from ordinary citizens to the rich and famous, donated everything from cash, jewellery. And other valuables, to help the first SKMCH&RC transform from a dream to a reality.

Master Plan

Dr. Nausherwan K. Burki MB, PhD, FRCP, FCCP developed the master plan for the hospital in 1990, while he was Professor of Medicine at the University of Kentucky. USA. He oversaw the building of the Hospital, which was designed by Graham Rapp of Arrasmith, Judd & Rapp, Architects in Health Planning, Louisville, Kentucky USA. Design details on site were handled by Messrs. Nayyar Ali Daada and Associates of Lahore. Local engineering was performed by Messrs. Progressive Consultants, Lahore.

Pakistan's first Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital an Research Center, located in Johar Town in Lahore, is built on a 20 acre site. It was planned in three. phases with the first one costing nearly US $ 22 million; nearly 67 percent of the required budget came in the form of donations.

Dr. Burki remains the Chief Medical Advisor and Member, Board of Governors, continuing to be involved with program development, quality control, and recruitment of consultant staff, as well as Professor of Medicine at the University of Gonnecticut Health Center, in Farmington, Connecticut, USA.

Inauguration

Finally, against all odds, after the completion of the first phase of the Hospital, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre opened on December 29, 1994. Setting a new trend in Pakistan, the Hospital was not inaugurated by a VIP but by a ten-year old patient.

SKMCH&RC Today

Withstanding the test of time, Pakistan's first SKMCH&RC in Lahore is today staffed by highly competent professionals and has gone from strength to strength, treating thousands of patients over the years. Today, it stands as one of the best cancer centres in the world and it is proud to have earned Joint Commission International's Gold Seal of Approval for Hospital Accreditation. It is a unique cancer centre which has been built and operated for almost twenty-five years as a result of the support of the public, and which has consistently treated over 75% of its patients completely free.

Projects of Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust

The Shaukat Khanum Memorial Trust has established a number of centres all across Pakistan that help in the awareness, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer in Pakistan. Hospitals

a.    Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (Lahore, Pakistan), the first specialized cancer facility in the entire region with all the cancer diagnostic and therapeutic facilities under one roof, inaugurated on December 29, 1994.

b.    Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (Peshawar, Pakistan), built according to the latest international healthcare standards, inaugurated on December 29, 2015.

c.    Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (Karachi, Pakistan). The construction is planned to start within 2020, with commencement of clinical services expected within three years of the initiation of construction work.

Outreach Cancer Screening Clinics

a.    Shaukat Khanum Walk-In-Clinic (Karachi, Pakistan)

b.    Shaukat Khanum Walk-In-Clinic (Peshawar, Pakistan)

c.    Shaukat Khanum Walk-In-Clinic (Lahore, Pakistan) work.

Diagnostic Centers

a.    Shaukat Khanum Diagnostic Centre, Jail Road (Lahore, Pakistan)

b.    Karachi Diagnostic Centre and Clinic (Karachi, Pakistan)

c.    Shaukat Khanum Diagnostic Centre, Liberty (Lahore, Pakistan)

Laboratory Collection Centres

Nearly 200 Shaukat Khanum Labortary Collection Centres (all across Pakistan)

On Silver Jubilee of Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (SKMCH&RC), Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination on August 06, 2020.

One Year of Indian Occupied Jammu & Kashmir Under Siege. August 05, 2020 (2020-6A)

Kashmiris have been resisting Indian state oppression ever since 1947. On 5 August 2019, India unilaterally and illegally attempted to alter the internationally recognized disputed status of Indian Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IOJ&K) 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 continue to date. The defenseless people of IOJ&K remain deprived of their fundamental human rights and freedoms including rights to life and health despite rampant deadly pandemic of COVID-19.

 

Government of Pakistan has constantly been sensitizing the international community through political, diplomatic and media outreach about ongoing Indian state-terrorism in IOJ&K. While innocent Kashmiris are still subjugated to military siege, a special postage stamp is issued on 5 August 2020 to mark 365 days of an unprecedented spate of arbitrary detentions, extrajudicial killings and other gross abuses of human rights in IOJ&K. The stamp depicts one of the worst incidents of Indian state-terrorism in IOJ&K as elaborated below:

a.    The Sketch of an innocent Kashmiri, Bashir Ahmed, who was martyred by Indian Security Forces on 1 July 2020 in Sopore, with his 3-years old grandson crying for his grandfather's life, reflect India's heartlessness and utter barbarity towards Kashmiris.

b.  Indian Soldier shooting an innocent Kashmiri infront of his grandson vindicates Pakistan's stance that India is perpetrating worst state-terrorism in IOJ&K.

c.    The Map of IOJ&K is bound by a barbed wire which symbolizes how Kashmiris are cut off from the rest of the world because of continued military siege and communication blockade in IOJ&K.

d.    Blood-stained figure 365 represents the number of days for which IOJ&K has been besieged by Indian security forces since illegal and unilateral actions of India on 5 August 2019.

e.    A blood-soaked cutter in the middle symbolizes the killing spree in IOJ&K by tyrant Indian forces, particularly after 5 August 2019.

f.     The wording "The Struggle continues" mentioned in the bottom left of the stamp, shows Kashmiris resolve to continue to fight for their freedom against all odds.

g.    Human figures in red and green colors at bottom depict Kashmiris. The red ones symbolize Kashmiri martyrs who lost their lives at the hands of fascist Hindu regime while striving for freedom; the greens are the ones still surviving Indian state-terrorism and are continuing struggle of their forefathers.

h.    "Kashmir Pakistan Ki Sheh Rug" written on the left side, depicts importance of Jammu & Kashmir for Pakistan and resonates our resolve that Pakistan will leave no stone unturned to rid our Kashmir brethren from the atrocious Indian rule.

i.      The overall frame of the postage has 52 border cuts showing that Kashmir is under brutal Indian siege for last 52 weeks.

j.      Rs 58, cost of the Stamp links it to 5th August (8th month of the last year) when India unilaterally and illegally revoked special status of IOJ&K through abrogation of Article 370 & 35-A, of Constitution of India.

On one year of Indian Occupied Jammu & Kashmir Under Siege, Pakistan Post is issuing a Special Postage Stamp of Rs. 58/- denomination on August 05, 2020.

World Population Day 2020. July 11, 2020 (2020-6)

World Population Day:- Attaining Balanced Population Growth Pakistan's progress on most health, education, and demographic indicators has slowed down according to the Population Census 2017 and the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) 2017-18. These trends signify a worsening of existing inequalities and imbalances, threatening the country's shrinking resource base as well as its future prosperity. The situation warrants urgent corrective actions at all levels of State and society.

As a key measure, Pakistan must lose no further time in joining the countries of the region and the Muslim world in achieving a rate of population growth that is sustainable. This will have to be much lower than the current (1998- 2017) high growth rate of 2.4%. In this regard, a National Task Force constituted by the Supreme Court has already identified eight broad sectors and thirty-three specific recommendations for implementation by Provincial Governments, regions and the Federal Government. These recommendations have been endorsed by the Supreme Court and approved by the Council of Common Interest (CCI) chaired by the Prime Minister of Pakistan.

The idea of balanced population growth has historically evoked disparate, ambivalent and often negative responses in the country .The endorsement by all concerned of a new "national narrative" is, therefore, the first of the Task Force's recommendations under "Advocacy and Communication".

Pakistan is a uniquely created, richly diverse nation-state with enormous potential but it currently ranks 150th among 189 countries on the Human Development Index 2017. There is a need to eliminate preventable maternal and neonatal deaths, ensure adequate nutrition and education for all, provide access to clean water, and eradicate poverty.

National Narrative on Population:- Parents have the right to freely and responsibly decide the number and spacing of their children to fulfil the fundamental rights of their children and family by maintaining a Balance/Tawazun between their family size and resources. The Government and society have the responsibility to facilitate parents to achieve this balance by providing universal access to family planning information and services, thereby achieving sustainable development.

Sustainable population growth means growth in which this tawazun is maintained. It must prevail, at the macro level, between essential human goals and population numbers; the numbers and quality of citizens; natural resources and the people they sustain. At the micro level, tawazun must be attained between the births of children and their mother's capacity to recuperate and breastfeed them; between the size of the families and their capacity to ensure the rights of each member. All eminent religious scholars the world over have endorsed birth spacing as one way to ensure balanced family size.

While family size remains a private choice, separate from the public domain, parents' right to have as many children as they desire must be balanced with their responsibility to ensure that each child is brought up under the care of a healthy mother. Certainly, family planning and birth spacing should be driven by informed choice and free will, and not coercion. But the State is responsible for fulfilling all citizens' rights to the information and to the services they need in order to make, and act on informed choices.

Balanced population growth ensures wellbeing, prosperity, safety and security which is the common aspiration of the people of Pakistan. The attainment of this imperative goal is possible through three inter-linked principles:

Rights:- The first principle recognizes that all citizens of the country have fundamental rights, which are enshrined in all religious teachings, the Constitution of Pakistan and the international covenants (ICPD, FP2020, SDGs) to which Pakistan is a signatory. This includes the right to adequate shelter, nutrition, health and family planning, education, employment opportunities and gainful livelihoods to improve the quality of life.

Responsibilities:- The second principle is the recognition that, to attain these rights, individuals, and parents as well as the State have distinct responsibilities to fulfill. Parents ought to act responsibly and have the number of children they can provide with the basic rights and needs, e.g., nutrition, health, and good upbringing, while the State remains responsible for providing necessary services and resources, such as family planning and health services, quality education, proper housing, and job opportunities.

Balance-Tawazun:- The third principle recognizes the need to strike a balance, or tawazun, in all aspects, especially between rights and responsibilities. This implies a tawazun between population growth and available resources and regenerative capacity."Tawazun" is intrinsic in Nature and commanded in Islam and other faiths as a prerequisite for peace and well-being.

On World Population Day 2020, Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs 20/- denomination on July 11, 20

International Day Against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking "SAY NO TO DRUGS" June 26, 2020 (2020-5)

Drug Abuse is a global issue and Pakistan is no exception. Proliferation of drugs / psychotropic substances and continuous increase in number of drug addicts remains an emerging challenge. The matter poses a grave threat to life of the masses in general and youth in particular. The fact requires special and immediate attention towards this menace. ANF is playing significant role against war on drugs, and its endeavors in drug supply reduction, drug demand reduction and international cooperation are commendable. The menace of drug abuse cannot be countered effectively unless all segments of the society join hands for the purpose, as the eradication of drug abuse is a shared national obligation for all the section of society. The National Anti-Narcotics Policy 2019 lays specific emphasis on federal and provincial organization to play their role in establishment of Drug Free Society.

International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking will be observed on June 26th across the world including Pakistan to raise awareness on drug abuse. It is an occasion with much conscious fervor for creating mass awareness among the masses regarding hazards of drug addiction and illegal trafficking. With reference to this day and with aim of creating awareness against drugs in youth and general public, ANF wants to make postal stamps that can help to reduce the drug trend in people. In addition, ANF is sponsoring many awareness campaigns and links with various federal, provincial institutions and other private organizations regarding reducing the drug trend and creating awareness among general public, whose fruit full results are being seen.

Being the premier drug law enforcement agency of Pakistan, ANF is zealously putting concerted efforts for eradication of drug abuse. On one hand it is busy in creating awareness among the general masses, on the other hand it is adopting stringent measures to control the flow of illicit drugs and precursor chemical. Over a period of time, use of narcotics has surreptitiously crept in our society. Our youth is more vulnerable to this menace.

DDR Directorate ANF presents a softer image and undertakes its obligations while joining hands with public. ANF undertakes Awareness Ventures, Harm Reduction Programs and Addict Treatment Projects, hence adopting aconviction based rejection to drugs. It remained engaged in conducting Drug Demand Reduction activities since its inception. In Addition, DDR Directorate assists in creating bondage between ANF and General Public through NGOS, CBOs, Sport Organizations, and Community Gathering etc. It gives out its message through public gathering, print media, pamphlets, posters / handouts, advertisement boards etc. It works on the code that if

there is no demand then there will be no supply of drugs, so the efforts of DDR are homed to convince the people to say "No to Drugs" by themselves. Objectives.

a.    Arrange and conduct national training programs relating to Drug Abuse Prevention/ Drug Demand Reduction.

b.    Arrange audio-visual and print material to support training and other Drug Abuse Prevention activities.

c.    Maintain lists of NGOs / CBOs for cooperation and networking.

d.    Reduce the demand of illicit drug through Preventive Education, Rehabilitation and Harm Reduction Programs.

e.    Identification, preparation & implementation of projects in relation to Drug Abuse Prevention / Drug Demand Reduction.

f.     Maintain liaison with national and international organizations connected with research on drug abuse issues.

g.    Arrange and conduct research / surveys relating to drug abuse issues/Drug Demand Reduction.

h.    Develop expertise within DDR, to provide meaningful assistance for Demand Reduction activities to ANF Regional Directorates, Provincial Government Agencies, NGOs / CBOs, & others.

Drug is a natural or chemical substance that adversely affects a person's physical and mental health if abused. Drug Abuse has become a global problem, which is causing irreparable harm to society and humanity at large. To combat the drug spread is a shared social and national responsibility not just of the individual or the state but all of us. All members/ organizations of the Society have a duty to play a vital role to protect our society against drug outbreaks. Joint social cooperation is the foremost need for a healthy "Drug Free Society"..

In the context of the above, ANF understands that, the Pakistan Postal Services postal stamps/ envelops can send a clear and loud message to create awareness against drugs in general public and in the urban areas as well as for furlong and remote rural areas.

On International Day Against Drug Abuse & Illicit Trafficking, a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.20/-denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on June 26, 2020.

Mujahideen of Tehreek Pakistan, Mahmud Ali (1919-2006) February 18, 2020 (2020-4)

 

"We'll never compromise on Kashmir" were the last words of Mr. Mahmud Ali who died of a heart attack during a school function in Lahore on 17th November 2006. These words encapsulate his unwavering belief in social justice and the right of all people to live with dignity, free of exploitation. It is this belief that drove him to fight for the creation of Pakistan as a homeland for Muslims and other marginalised peoples of the sub-continent; and it is this that made him support the freedom struggle of the Kashmir Muslims until his dying moment.

Born in Sylhet on September 1, 1919 to Moulvi Mujahed Ali and Musammat Mujtaba Chowdury, Mahmud Ali lost his father when he was a toddler. His uncle, Moulvi Munawwer Ali who married the young widow, raised him like his own son and mentored him.

After his basic education in Sylhet, he obtained his Honours degree in English from Shillong (now in India). His dream of becoming a lawyer like his father and uncle, both law graduates from the Aligarh Muslim University. was however, interrupted by his involvement in the Pakistan Movement.

As a young man in his 20s, Mahmud Ali was already active in local politics, becoming, by 26, the General Secretary of the Assam Provincial Muslim League. In this capacity, he courted arrest along with thousands of others, protesting against colonial policies excluding Bengali immigrants from farming beyond a specified imaginary line. This was the notorious Line System. Upon release from prison, he successfully campaigned in favour of Sylhet joining Pakistan through the Sylhet Referendum of July 1947.

In 1952, Mahmud Ali was involved in the movement demanding the right of Bangla to be the national language of Pakistan alongside Urdu. When the police opened fire killing demonstrating students in Dhaka, he resigned from the Muslim League, which was the ruling party in East Pakistan. Later, Mahmud Ali was the first Cabinet Minister in the East Pakistan Government to sign an official document in Bangla.

In 1953, he co-founded the Ganatantri Dal, the first non-communal political party in Pakistan. With Ali elected as its Secretary General, and Haji Dost Mohammed Danish as its President, the Ganatranti Dal in alliance with like- minded political parties formed the Jugto Front (United Front) managing to rout the Muslim League government in the first general elections held in East Pakistan after independence in 1947. The new government led by Sher-e-Bangla AKM Fazlul Haq was however dismissed after 57 days in office through the imposition of Governor's Rule. Mahmud Ali was among the leaders arrested and imprisoned. His wife, young children and other members of his family were also later jailed.

After his release in July 1955, Mahmud Ali was elected a Member of the Second Constituent Assembly. In November, he was re-arrested and detained in Karachi under the Security of Pakistan Act, and subsequently in Dhaka Central jail until his release in January 1956. Later, he was appointed the Revenue and Prions Minister in the Cabinet of East Pakistan's Chief Minister, Ataur Rahman Khan.

In 1957, after resigning from the United Front government, the Ganatantri Dal joined forces with other progressive parties to form the first broad based All Pakistan Party, the Pakistan National Awami Party (NAP). When General Ayub Khan imposed Martial Law in 1958 and proclaimed himself President, Mr. Ali was in the forefront of the democratisation movement. He was a signatory to the famous Nine Leaders Statement, which challenged the abrogation of the Constitution by President Ayub, and called on him to restore the sovereignty of Pakistan. In 1969, he co-founded the Pakistan Democratic Party and was elected Senior Vice-President of the party. Headed by Mr. Nurul Amin.

Following the civil war in East Pakistan in 1971, and the invasion by India, Ali remained steadfast in his allegiance to Pakistan, convinced that the rights and safety of Bengalis could only be secured in a strong and united country. He led the Pakistan Delegation to the 26th session of the UN General Assembly in New York in 1971, securing the support of 105 out of 131 UN member states who held India aggressor in the war.

Upon creation of Bangladesh, he lived in Islamabad, never to return to his beloved Bengal. In whichever position he held in and outside the Government, he left an impact. As Minister of Overseas Pakistanis, Mr. Ali successfully negotiated with the British Government to allow immigrants of Pakistani origin to hold dual Pakistani and British nationality. Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto gave him the rank and status of Federal Minister, which he retained until his demise in November 2006.

Seeing the media as a critical channel for social and political change, he and his wife, Begum Hajera Khatun, started publishing the Bengall language newspaper "Nao-Belal". This was proscribed between mid-1958 and 1969 by successive Pakistani governments. In 1980, he founded The Concept, an ideological magazine, remaining the Chair of The Concept Publication Trust and its Chief Editor until his demise.

For Mahmud Ali, politics and social development were interwoven. Thus in 1986, he founded Tahrik-e-Takmeel-e-Pakistan, a Movement dedicated to the completion of Pakistan according to the 1940 Lahore Resolution. Through this he spread his message of self-reliance and freedom from dependency on foreign aid agencies. He remained its President until his death.

He was courageous and compassionate, often at personal risk to himself. In 1950, when Hindu-Muslim riots broke out in East Pakistan he organized a Peace Mission in Sylhet, and succeeded in bringing the riot under control in Sylhet district. Incensed, the local administration put him under detention. It took the intervention of the then Prime Minister of Pakistan, Liaqat Ali Khan, to have him released. A devout Muslim, he defended the right of Pakistani Christians (and other minorities) to live as equal citizens and promoted inter-faith dialogue till the end of his life. His relentless struggle for the rights of all people, won him accolades, including the Gadhafi medal for Human Rights and Peace.

On Mahmud Ali (1919-2006) under the series of Tehreek-e-Pakistan Key Mujahid" a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.20/-denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on February 18, 2020.

40 Years of Presence of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan. February 17, 2020 (2020-3)

1. Background and context:- In 2019, the international community marked 40 years since the beginning of the Afghan dieplacement. Entering the fifth decade of their uprooting. Afghan refugees are the second largest refugee population in the world and largest protracted displacement situation under UNHCR's mandate.

While mitions of Afghans returned to Afghanistan over the years, there have also been waves of displacement and migration to neighbouring countries and beyond. Although Afghan refugees are dispersed across more than 50 countries, nearly 90 per cent of them continue to be hosted by just two countries: the Islamic Republica of Pakistan and tran. With over 1.4 million Afghan refugees and a similar number of other groups of Afghan nationals residing on its territory Pakistan remains the world's largest host country of Alghan refugees (and the second largest rahuges hosting country worldwide)

Despite immense pressure on the infrastructure and national public service delivery ystems for the past four decades, associated with the protracted presence of millions of refugees Pakistan continues to generously host these refugees and uphold the principles of intemational refugee protection. The Refugen Affected and Hosting Areas (RAHA) programme, initiated and spearheaded by the Government of Pakistan in 2000, has benefited more than 12.4 million individuals, including both Afghan refugees and their Pakistani host communities.

The Government also remains committed to actively promoting solutions to the problem of displacement with the Government of Alghanistan and other stakeholders. The Goverment of Afghanistan, meanwhile, has denied the retum of refugees and other nationals as one of its key priorities, reflected the reintegration needs in its national development plans and processes, and identified "pronty areas of return and reintegration (PARRs),

The international community has supported these efforts, including through investments in the implementation of the multi-year regional Solutions Strategy for Afghan Refugees (SSARI The SSAR focuses on voluntary repatriation, sustainable reintegration in Afghanistan and support for host communities among its principal elements. A dedicated SSAR Support Platform will be launched in December 2010, in line with the overarching objective of the Global Compact on Refugees, to operationalize international burden- and responsibility-sharing, including by creating new partnerships and better leveraging the existing ones for coherent and sustainable humanitarian and development respons.

2019 marked the 40 year of the Afghan refugee situation, as well as the 10 anniversary of the RAHA programme. These significant milestones provide a unique and timely opportunity for the international community to recognize the immense contributions made by Pakistan to the natugen causey to reflect and capitals on the achievements and lessons leamed thus far, and to explore opportunities for forging a new solidanty approach for the alamic Republica of Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan, building on the outcomes of the Glubul Refugee Forum and the launch of the SSAR Support

2. Objectives of the Conference:- Against this background, the Goverment of Pakistan, with the support of UNHCR is onvening an international conference that will seek to bring together high-level representatives of the Goverments of the alamic Republics of Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan and the international community with a view to

(I)            Highlighting the generosity, hospitality and compassion of the Islamic Republics of Pakistan Iran, as well as other countries that have hosted one of the largest refugee populations in the world for four decades

(II)          Galvanizing greater support to establish conditions for voluntary repatriason and sustainable reintegration of refugees in Afghanistan, andincreased international burden- and responsibility sharing with host countries, in te with the SSAR and the Getal Compact on Refugees, and

(III)         Mobilizing engagement of a broader and more diverse base of stakeholders through the SSAR Support Platform and in line with the Global Compact on Refugees, with a view to leveraging humanitarian and development interventions to ease the pressure on host countries and create conditions conducive to return in Afghanistan

3. Outcomes of the Conference:- The Conference will produce recommendations, captured in a chairperson's summary, which will inform the SSAR Support Platform and complement the outcomes of the Global Refugee Forum and its folow-up processes

4. Format of the Conference:- The conference will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister of Pakistan and be held over two days, consisting of a high-level opening s roundtables, a ministerial panel and other panel discussionstwo ministerial

On the occasion of High-level International Conference in Islamabad on 17-18 February 2020, To mark 40 Years of Presence of Afghan Refugees in Pakistan Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamps of Rs 20 denomination each (Set of Stamps)

Kashmir Solidarity Day February 5, 2020 (2020-2)

The affinity between the people of Pakistan and Indian Occupied Kashmir is very old due to mutual ideological, religious, cultural and geographical bonds, 5th February is an expression of this indelible relationship. Solidarity Day is commemorated with a commitment by people of Pakistan to extend their moral, political and diplomatic support to Kashmiri brethren for their just right of self-determination as envisaged in the UN resolutions. It is also observed to eulogize the innocent Kashmiris, mercilessly brutalized and traumatized by Indian Occupation Forces. Puppet Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah was forced to resign on 19 January 1990 and 'Governor Rule'was enforced in IOK under Jagmohan Malhotra, well known for hatred against Muslims/ Kashmiris. He straightway unleashed a new reign of terror. Indian forces launched so-called cordon and search operations in Srinagar and molested many women. As news spread, thousands of people took to the streets of Srinagar against this shamefully grievous crime of Indian Military. Menacing occupation forces under Governor's orderindiscriminately fired at peaceful protesters and killed over 50while injured hundreds of innocent civilians. These mass killingsof 21 January 1990 are one of worst massacres in the historyof Kashmir.

This carnage shocked Pakistan and a nationwide strike was observed on 5th February 1990. People overwhelmingly expressed solidarity with aggrieved Kashmiris and stressed upon international community to take cognizance of India's atrocious and inhuman attitude. Subsequent year, Government of Pakistan officially designated 5th February as 'Kashmir Solidarity Day', which has now become an important national ritual, when cross-section of Pakistanis renew their pledge of solidarity and unflinching support for Kashmir.

Governments as well as people of Pakistan have always stood firmly by their commitment to Kashmir cause. Pakistan's domestic as well as foreign policy has always been well disposed towards settlement of this dispute as per aspirations of Kashmiris duly mandated by UN resolutions. Kashmir cause has been top priority for successive governments hence raised at every national and international forum. India, which itself took this unfinished agenda of partition to UN, has been dillydallying its settlement as enshrined in UN resolutions of 5th January 1949. Rather, it embarked upon suppressing and muzzling Kashmiri men, women, children through massive presence of military and security forces under draconian law of 'Armed Forces Special Powers Act'. These occupation forces routinely employ torture, detentions, rapes and killings to silence the voices of freedom but in vain. Statistically speaking, last Thirty years have witnessed 95,478 Martyrdoms of innocent Kashmiris including 7,136 in Custody, while 109,449 Structures were Destroyed Damaged, 11,175 Women were Raped, 22,911 Women were Widowed and 107,784 Children rendered Orphans.

Scenario has worsened after extremist Hindu BJP assumed power in India. It started intermittently violating ceasefire along 'Line of Control' as well as ambitiously embarked upon a plan to assume power in IOK. Kashmiris were reeling under worst flooding but puppet regime in Srinagar as well as Delhi government went ahead to orchestrate yet another sham elections rather than providing rescue, relief and rehabilitation. Sagacious Kashmiris voted in large number to keep BJP at bay but it still became second largest party by winning in Hindu dominated Jammu region and vying to cobble an alliance now. BJP has a nefarious design to alter the status of IOK as a Muslim majority disputed region. However, Freedom loving Kashmiris are determined to resist and frustrate this evil design.

Foregoing in view, 'Kashmir Solidarity Day' is of immense importance this year, when egion is passing through a much tumultuous period. Kashmiris today need much stronger support of Pakistan so as to attain their right of self-determination, which remains an unfinished agenda of 1947 partitions and forgotten promise of international community. Kashmir Solidarity Day is being observed every year as such and the people of Pakistan and their sympathizers abroad hold programs to convey to the Kashmiris that they are not alone in their struggle for securing their right to self-determination.

On Kashmir Solidarity Day, Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs. 20/- denomination on February 05, 2020.

100th Birthday of Shaheed Hakim Muhammad Said (1920-2020) January 10, 2020 (2020-1)

Born in 1920, orphaned at 2, brought up by a remarkable young widowed mother who kept her late husband's business running, mentored by his older brother (Abdul Hameed), young Mohammed Said, after his initial schooling, studied and trained in Unani (Graeco-Arab) Eastern Medicine, as did his brother. They both had before them the shining example of their father, Hakim Hafiz Abdul Majeed, who, though he died at only 30, had made a name for himself and the establishment he had set up in 1906-Hamdard. It has continued to live up to its name, which means 'sharer of pain' or 'sympathizer'.

Hamdard Pakistan, 1948:- Hakim Mohammed Said migrated to Pakistan in 1948, and established Hamdard in Pakistan the same year. His father's Hamdard had been a 1-room shop in Old Delhi, divided in two by a curtain. Hakim Mohammed Said too started Hamdard in Karachi in 2 rooms, rented in Aram Bagh. That matab is still operational- and, ironically, it was outside its doorstep that he was assassinated in 1998-ending his career in Pakistan where he had begun it. But 70 years after its birth, that clinic has been joined by scores more, till there is a nationwide network of free Hamdard matabs, where patients are examined and diagnosed without cost, and only the" very economically priced medicines need to be bought.

Waqf and then Foundation established:- A mere 5 years later, in 1953, Hamdard had already established a reputation for quality herbal medicaments and health-care. But instead of reaping the benefits for himself, Hakim Mohammed Said converted it into a Waqf, the profits of which were - and are used for Allah's work: charity, nation - building, and culture-promoting activities. Some years later in 1964, the Hamdard Foundation Pakistan was formed to take considered decisions about the disbursement of the Laboratory funds and lay down guidelines for Hamdard's activities, which continued to widen.

Hamdard Free Mobile Dispensaries:- In 1953, one vehicle was provided with free health-care facilities for the needy at their doorsteps, in remote areas of Karachi. Today, there is a fleet of 22 of these - each carrying a trained hakim and herbal medicines. They serve eleven cities of the country, and reach and treat over 450.000 people every year.

Hamdard Naunehal:- Also in 1953, Hakim Mohammed Said started publication of an Urdu monthly magazine for children. Its aim was 'infotainment' as well as character development - and unconsciously the young readers learn! good language skills. Over 65 years later it is still going strong! A provincial governor once side he had almost been brought up on Naunehall

Hamdard Tibbia College:- 1958 saw Hakim Mohammed Said's first venture into education. Today, it is known as the Hamdard Al-Majeed College of Eastern Medicine and forms a Faculty of the Hamdard University, offering a 5-year HEC recognised degree course in Unani medicine.

Shaam-e-Hamdard (1961) and Shura Hamdard (1995):- The former became one of the best-known and popular forums in the country, hosting seminars and lectures in major cities, every month. This was converted into Shura Hamdard Pakistan and continues as a platform for thinkers, writers, poets, and historians, discussing national issues, making recommendations for concrete steps, which are sent to concerned government departments.

Bazm-e-Hamdard Naunehal (1985) & Hamdard Naunehal Assembly (1995):- The former was converted to the latter. Children between 8 and 15 are given a forum to voice their thoughts on important issues. Not only doss this increase awareness, it is excellent training for confident self-expression. Well-known media and political personalities have emerged from these sessions. They are held monthly in major Pakistan cities.

Hamdard Public School (1987) & Hamdard Village School (1997):- One of Hakim Mohammed Said's most cherished ideals was to help in spreading education and not just subjects in the curriculum, but also a grounding in moral values and those cultural norms which were worth preserving. Focus on high standards of such an education was the purpose of establishing Hamdard Public School, with no more than 30 pupils per class, so as to ensure adequate teacher's attention. Excellent results in examinations bear witness to the success of achieving this goal. Pleasant environment and sports facilities add to the good experience. Not content with only catering to the educational needs of middle and upper classes. Hakim Mohammed Said started the unique Hamdard Village School for the children of villages surrounding Madinat al-Hikmah. Not only was the tuition completely free, but books, stationery, schoolbags, uniforms, and shoes were (and are) provided gratis. Vocational training is also provided. Starting from a suspicious and reluctant handful in 1997 the student numbers have swelled to over 700. Not just that, they have competed in inter-school events and won prizes!

Hamdard University (1992) & Bait al-Hikmah Library (1989):- Situated in Madinat al-Hikmah (City of Education, Science, and Culture), on the outskirts of Karachi, is the ever-expanding Hamdard University - the largest private. one in Pakistan. It has 7 faculties, also city campuses, and one in Islamabad. It is unique in offering degree courses in both eastern and allopathic medicine, and the first to recognize and give faculty importance to Information Technology (IT).

Hamdard University Hospital (1997) and other Hamdard ones:- Hamdard University Hospital (aka Taj Medical Complex) is not only a teaching hospital for its undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate medical students, it is a fully functional 300-bed hospital, providing the best possible treatment to patients at subsidized rates.

Hamdard also runs an eastern medicine hospital (ShifaulMulk Memorial Hospital) and Naimat Begum Hamdard University Hospital. In addition, it also contributes to other welfare organizations.

Other Hamdard philanthropic work:- Just a few examples of miscellaneous other charitable works engaged in by Hamdard and launched by Hakim Mohammed Said, are stipends for poor windows and needy people, different scholarships for meritorious and needy students, Blankets distribution among the poor families in winter, free ration in the holy month of Ramzan for needy families, and free patients scheme in Taj Medical Complex (total free treatment).

On 100th Birthday of Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said (1920-2020), a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.20/- denomination is being issued by Pakistan Post on January 10, 2020.