NCSW Salutes the Courage, Contribution & Leadership of resilient Pakistani Women— Who Shaped the Nation’s Freedom and Future
Islamabad : As Pakistan celebrates its 78th Independence Day, National Commission on the Status of Women (NCSW) joins the nation in saluting the enduring spirit, unshakable resolve, and extraordinary contributions of Pakistani women who have played a central role in the country’s journey—from its birth to its evolution as a resilient and forward-looking nation.
This Independence Day is not just a commemoration of our sovereignty; it is a celebration of the courage of our people, especially our women—who stood tall during Partition, persevered through countless national crises, and continue to lead Pakistan toward prosperity in every walk of life.
From the frontlines of the freedom struggle to the corridors of power, Pakistani women have always led with grace and grit. We honour the iconic women whose names have become synonymous with courage, service, and excellence—Begum Rana Liaquat Ali Khan, Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Kalsoom Nawaz, Fahmida Mirza, Malala Yousafzai, Maliha Lodhi, Hina Rabbani Khar, Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, and countless others whose stories have inspired generations.
From Madam Noor Jehan, who stirred hearts during wars with her voice, to our women pilots, police officers, scientists, peacekeepers, entrepreneurs, and educators—Pakistani women have never remained on the sidelines of history. Even during this year’s national defence operation resulting in victory on May 10, women in our armed forces, health sector, media, and emergency services served shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts, embodying the spirit of sacrifice and strength.
Today, NCSW celebrates this marqah-e-haq (milestone of truth) by highlighting the resilience of Pakistani women—their ability to overcome adversity, adapt to challenges, and lead change within families, communities, and national institutions.
Resilience is the foundation of every empowered woman in Pakistan. Whether facing poverty, climate disasters, violence, or systemic barriers—women have responded with courage and community spirit. Whether rebuilding homes after floods, advocating for education, or supporting families through economic hardship, their strength defines the spirit of our Independence.
We also recognize the ongoing efforts to build economic resilience and mental well-being for women through state-led programs and global partnerships. Pakistani women have consistently demonstrated that progress, recovery, and peace are not possible without their active participation.
This year, NCSW proudly launches the national campaign “Aik Beti, Aik Shajar” (One Daughter, One Tree) — a powerful celebration of girls in Pakistan. Under this campaign, every father will plant a tree in honour of his daughter’s birth. This initiative, to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, symbolizes our commitment to environmental sustainability, gender pride, and a greener, more inclusive Pakistan.
As Chairperson of NCSW, I take this opportunity to reiterate our demand for greater inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making roles—in government, business, science, diplomacy, and all public institutions. Women in Pakistan have proven time and again that they are focused, capable, and committed to excellence. It is time we open more doors for women to lead from the front.
On this Independence Day, let us renew our pledge to ensure that every woman and girl in Pakistan can live, learn, lead, and thrive—safely and equally. True independence means the freedom to reach one’s potential without fear or barriers.
To the women of Pakistan—we see you, we celebrate you, and we walk with you into a future of dignity, opportunity, and justice.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
