Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has conferred national awards on 104 distinguished Pakistanis and foreigners in recognition of their services, excellence, and sacrifices across various fields. The awards ceremony, announced on Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day, is scheduled for March 23, 2025.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, the recipients span a broad spectrum of professions and achievements, encompassing science and engineering, education, medicine, arts, literature, sports, social services, philanthropy, entrepreneurs, taxpayers and exporters, public service, gallantry, and services to Pakistan. Highlights include the posthumous conferment of the Nishan-i-Pakistan on former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for his public services and the Hilal-i-Imtiaz for Olympian Arshad Nadeem, who recently won a gold medal at the Paris Olympics.

Other notable awardees include mountaineer Murad Sadpara, who received the Sitara-i-Imtiaz in sports, and late poet Nasir Kazmi, awarded the Nishan-i-Imtiaz posthumously for his literary contributions. Foreign dignitaries such as Saudi Prince Abdulaziz Bin Salman Al Saud were also recognized, with the prince receiving the Hilal-i-Pakistan for his services to the nation.

The investiture ceremony will also honor individuals for their gallantry, including posthumous awards to law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty, emphasizing the nation’s appreciation for their ultimate sacrifice.