Pakistan Army is our defender 

The recent crisis has proved this

The DG ISPR has maintained active engagement with youth and students, reinforcing transparency and communication. During a recent press briefing, he underscored a vital principle: The Pakistan Army is an institution of the state, not affiliated with any individual or political party. He emphasized that the Army serves the state and operates upon request, extending continuous support to city governments and civil administrations. He also highlighted the Army’s significant contributions to civil works across the country.

Soldiers from Sindh, including both Sindhis and Mohajirs, have also played a significant role in shaping the Army. Sindhi personnel have served with dedication across various ranks and functions, contributing to the Army’s professionalism and operational strength. The Mohajir community has maintained a strong presence in the military, with many individuals rising to key positions as officers, soldiers, engineers, and technicians.

Moreover, the Pakistan Army reflects the country’s diverse ethnic and cultural fabric, with smaller communities such as the Hazaras etc also making valuable contributions. Their inclusion underscores the Army’s commitment to unity, representation, and national cohesion. The unwavering dedication and loyalty of Pakistan’s diverse soldiers significantly enhance the strength and cohesion of the Army. One of the most remarkable aspects of this diversity is the inclusion of various religious communities. While Pakistan is a Muslim-majority nation, the Army proudly includes members of religious minorities— such as Hindus, Christians, and others— who serve with the same commitment, professionalism, and pride. The Army’s inclusive traditions ensure that soldiers from all Islamic sects, including Sunni, Shia, and others, serve side by side, fostering unity through shared faith and brotherhood.

Despite the demographic majority of Muslims, the Pakistan Army actively provides opportunities for religious minorities, particularly in specialized non-combat roles such as engineering, medical services, and technical support. Their skills, dedication, and patriotism are recognized and respected. Christian soldiers, for instance, have been awarded honours for their bravery and service. The Army continues to emphasize inclusivity, offering equal opportunities, career growth, and benefits to all personnel, regardless of faith.

The Army also mirrors Pakistan’s rich linguistic diversity. Personnel are recruited from across the country, representing a wide array of regional languages and dialects. Although Urdu serves as the national language and primary medium of communication, the military encourages linguistic inclusivity. Soldiers often speak in their native tongues— such as Punjabi, Pashto, Sindhi, Balochi, and others— creating a multilingual environment. To promote understanding and operational efficiency, language training programmes are offered where needed, ensuring effective communication across all ranks and units.

Cultural diversity is another vibrant aspect of military life. Soldiers bring with them the unique traditions, cuisines, customs, and practices of their regions, enriching the collective identity of the Pakistan Army. This multiculturalism is not only respected but actively celebrated through events such as cultural festivals, regional heritage days, and traditional ceremonies. These initiatives foster mutual respect, promote unity in diversity, and strengthen camaraderie among troops from all backgrounds.

Diversity is truly one of the Pakistan Army’s greatest strengths. It ensures that the military reflects the broader fabric of Pakistani society, where individuals— regardless of race, religion, language, or ethnicity— are given the opportunity to serve their nation with honour. This inclusive spirit reinforces national unity, strengthens internal harmony, and ensures that the Army remains a cohesive and resilient force committed to the country’s security and success. The diversity within the military plays a vital role in strengthening national unity by uniting soldiers from various backgrounds under a shared commitment to defend the nation.

Moreover, this diversity enhances the military’s ability to operate effectively across the country, particularly in regions with unique ethnic and cultural identities. It allows for better understanding, communication, and engagement with local populations, ultimately contributing to more effective and inclusive operations. Local soldiers play a crucial role in fostering trust and building strong relationships with the communities they serve. Their familiarity with the region’s geography, language, and culture allows them to offer valuable insights and enhance the Army’s effectiveness— particularly in conflict zones and peacekeeping operations.

The Pakistan Army remains firmly committed to cultivating leadership from all backgrounds, ensuring equal opportunities for individuals across every region and ethnic group to advance through the ranks. Leadership development is rooted in merit, competence, and capability, allowing talented individuals to lead, inspire, and serve regardless of their origins.

The people of Pakistan, especially the youth, view the Pakistan Army as a source of national pride and the true defender of the state. They strongly reject any propaganda against the military and deeply appreciate its countless contributions to the country’s progress and well-being.

Professionalism and discipline form the core of the Pakistan Army’s ethos, guiding every action, decision, and interaction. These principles ensure that all personnel uphold the highest standards of conduct. From training grounds to operational deployments, soldiers are instilled with values such as respect, humility, and a deep sense of duty. Within the Army’s hierarchical structure, soldiers are trained to respect their superiors while treating subordinates with fairness and dignity.

Teamwork is essential to the Army’s success and is grounded in mutual respect and shared purpose rather than individual ambition. Soldiers are taught to value the contributions of every team member, regardless of rank. The Army’s strict code of conduct, which applies both in and out of uniform, emphasizes the importance of treating others with decency and respect. Arrogance and rudeness are not tolerated; instead, humility, selflessness, and a sense of honour are considered defining qualities of a true soldier.

Pakistan’s cultural values, which emphasize respect for elders and authority, are reflected within the military. Soldiers are expected to embody these principles, upholding humility and integrity in every interaction. This cultural foundation also shapes the Army’s relationship with the civilian population. Whether during peacetime or crises, soldiers are trained to engage with civilians respectfully and courteously.

At the heart of every soldier lies a core principle: to serve the nation above self. This sense of duty fosters a culture of selfless service, ensuring that the military remains a force not only of strength but also of integrity and humanity. Soldiers remain dedicated to the collective mission, placing the nation’s interests above personal recognition.

Leadership within the Pakistan Army is grounded in integrity, empathy, and mutual respect. Officers and commanding personnel play a crucial role in shaping the values, behaviour, and discipline of those under their command. Leadership that emphasizes compassion and selflessness fosters a culture where arrogance is rejected, and professionalism prevails.

Officers in the Pakistan Army are expected to lead by example, embodying the highest standards of conduct. They are accessible, fair, and supportive— providing guidance when needed and fostering a respectful, disciplined environment. This emphasis on respectful leadership sets a positive tone across all ranks, cultivating a culture of mutual regard and professionalism throughout the Army.

Military leaders are also trained to resolve conflicts through diplomacy, ensuring fairness and dignity in their interactions. They are attentive to the emotional and psychological well-being of their troops, and by prioritizing communication, empathy, and understanding, they help maintain a supportive and respectful atmosphere.

The professionalism of the Pakistan Army extends beyond its internal operations to the international stage. Whether participating in peacekeeping missions, joint military exercises, or diplomatic engagements with foreign forces, Army personnel consistently represent Pakistan with honour and integrity.

The Pakistan Army has a longstanding and respected presence in United Nations peacekeeping operations, where its soldiers serve alongside multinational forces. In addition to peacekeeping, the Army regularly engages in joint training and defense collaboration with foreign militaries. In all such interactions, Pakistani soldiers uphold the highest standards of professionalism and courtesy, reinforcing a positive image of the Army and the nation it represents.

The Pakistan Army’s reputation— both at home and internationally— is built on its consistent adherence to professionalism, discipline, and respect. Whether serving the public during crises or representing the nation abroad, Pakistani soldiers demonstrate integrity in every aspect of their service. Their humility and respectful conduct inspire trust among the Pakistani people and earn admiration from the global community. Domestically, the Army is widely regarded as a guardian of the nation and a pillar of stability, owing to its steadfast commitment to national unity and its leading role in responding to challenges. This trust is earned through the Army’s humility, professionalism, and steadfast dedication to serving the people.

In today’s digital age, where information spreads quickly, managing the narrative is as crucial as any military operation. Among the various threats to national security, the spread of misinformation, propaganda, and disinformation can severely impact the reputation of institutions, governments, and even the nation as a whole. As one of Pakistan’s most respected institutions, the Army has faced significant challenges in this area, as hostile narratives and misinformation are often used to undermine its efforts and tarnish its image.

In this regard, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has played a pivotal role in countering misinformation and presenting the truth about Pakistan and its armed forces. His leadership, professionalism, and commitment to transparency have made him a key figure in combating harmful propaganda and promoting a positive image of Pakistan and the Army, both at home and abroad.

Pakistan takes pride in its Army, which has once again demonstrated its role as a true guardian and defender of the nation by firmly responding to recent Indian aggression and missile attacks. The Pakistan Army has clearly shown that while we are a peace-loving nation, any act of aggression will be met with a resolute and forceful response.

The people of Pakistan, especially the youth, view the Pakistan Army as a source of national pride and the true defender of the state. They strongly reject any propaganda against the military and deeply appreciate its countless contributions to the country’s progress and well-being.

Abdul Basit Alvi
Abdul Basit Alvi
The writer is a freelance columnist

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