ISLAMABAD (MNN); The government on Tuesday announced that the Pakistan Day parade and other ceremonial events scheduled for March 23 will not be held due to the ongoing Gulf oil crisis and austerity measures.
Pakistan Day, observed annually on March 23, marks the adoption of the Lahore Resolution in 1940, when the All-India Muslim League called for a separate homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, the decision was taken in view of the prevailing economic challenges. However, the day will still be observed with dignity through simple flag-hoisting ceremonies.
The statement emphasized that the move aims to align national commemorations with the government’s broader austerity policy while preserving the spirit of the occasion. Ministries and departments have been directed to mark the day in a respectful and modest manner.
The government recently introduced strict austerity measures following the global oil crisis triggered by the US-Israel conflict with Iran. These steps include a 50 percent reduction in fuel allowances for official vehicles, a four-day work week, and partial work-from-home arrangements for public sector employees, excluding essential services.
Additionally, salaries of employees in state-owned enterprises and autonomous bodies will be reduced by 5 to 30 percent, with the saved funds to be utilized for public relief.
