Karachi: Defence and Martyrs Day was observed on Saturday to pay tribute to martyrs and Ghazis with renewed commitment to defend the motherland against all threats. It was on this day in 1965 when the Indian forces crossed the international border in the darkness of night to attack Pakistan, but the nation foiled the enemy's designs.

According to Radio Pakistan, the day began with a thirty-one gun salute in the Federal Capital and a twenty-one gun salute in provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered in mosques for the progress and prosperity of the country and for the independence of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir from Indian control. Additionally, Fateha and Quran Khawani were held for the martyrs.

In Karachi, a change of guard ceremony took place at Mazar-e-Quaid. A contingent of the Pakistan Air Force Academy Asghar Khan assumed guard duties. Air Vice Marshal Shahryar Khan, the chief guest at the ceremony, laid a floral wreath at the Mazar-e-Quaid and offered Fateha.

In Lahore, a ceremony was held at Mazar-i-Iqbal in connection with Defence and Martyrs Day. Corps Commander Lahore, Lieutenant General Fayyaz Hussain Shah, laid a floral wreath at the mausoleum, marking the occasion with respect and solemnity.