ISLAMABAD: The nation along with the country’s armed forces will observe the Defence Day today with a renewed pledge to continue safeguarding the geographical, ideological boundaries and territorial integrity of the motherland.

The day will dawn with special prayers in mosques for the well-being and prosperity of the country. ‘Fateha’ and Quran Khwani will be held for those who laid their lives to serve the nation, opting to embrace the supreme sacrifice. Wreath-laying ceremonies will be held at the mausoleums of the recipients of Nishan-e-Haider (the highest gallantry award), which will be attended by senior officials of the respective areas across the country.

Special events will be held to mark the day. The national media, both print and electronic, have chalked out a comprehensive coverage plan of the events to be held in connection with the Defence Day.

Newspapers will publish special supplements, while electronic media will telecast and broadcast special programmes, signifying the importance of the day. The media would also carry the messages of president, prime minister, speaker and deputy speaker of the National Assembly in relation to the significance of the day. Special talkshows will be held on the state-run and private TV channels and radio stations across the country.

It was on this day in 1965 that the Indian forces crossed the international border in the darkness of the night to attack Pakistan, but the ever-vigilant armed forces, solidly backed by the nation, foiled the nefarious designs of the enemy.

The armed forces of Pakistan commemorate September 6 to pay tributes to martyrs and ‘Ghazis’ for their supreme sacrifices and gallantry acts.

According to another report, the Inter-Services Public Relations on Tuesday released a new promo for September 6 Defence Day. ‘Tu Salamat Watan Taa Qiamat Watan’ (Long Live my motherland till the Day of Judgment) is the theme of this new song. The new promo also includes a special message of COAS Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa.

The promo further indicates ceremonies at the Wagah border on August 14. Song has deep and meaningful lyrics and complex beats perfectly sync with each other while powerful vocals expertly sync with the music. Special ceremonies will be held at the GHQ today (Wednesday) from 8pm to 10pm.

The ISPR in its latest song has paid tributes to martyrs, both civilians and military personnel. Those being honoured in the video include Maj Shabbir Sharif Shaheed, Capt Sarwar Shaheed, Flying Officer Marium Mukhtar Shaheed, Aitzaz Hassan, Capt Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed, Major Aziz Bhatti Shaheed, Major Tufail Shaheed, Lance Naik Muhammad Mahfuz, Bashir Ahmad Bilour, Capt Akash, Nasrullah Afridi, havaldar Lalak Jan Shaheed, Capt Mobin Ahmad (retd) and Sarwar Muhammad Hussain Shaheed.

Similarly, Pakistan Navy is also launching its first ever story/theme based patriotic video song “Yeh Mera Ghar Hay Yaad Rakho” on the Defence Day. The story of the song and documentary revolves around the hardcore training sequences and glimpses of Special Service Group’s (Navy) capabilities of undertaking various operations.