Latest news with #AbdulQadeerKhan
Business Recorder
6 days ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
‘Youm-e-Takbeer' Armed forces, CJCSC, services chiefs felicitate nation
RAWALPINDI: The Armed Forces of Pakistan, along with the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and Services Chiefs, have extended heartfelt felicitations to the people of Pakistan on the 27th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer. According to a statement of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Youm-e-Takbeer commemorates the momentous occasion in 1998 when Pakistan emerged as a nuclear power, restoring the strategic balance in South Asia and asserting its sovereign right to self-defence. This historic achievement epitomises the nation's resolve, unity, and unwavering pursuit of a dignified and peaceful existence. Pakistan's strategic capability is a national trust, reflecting the collective aspirations of its people. The commemoration of Youm-e-Takbeer is a tribute to the foresight of visionary leadership, the brilliance of our scientists and engineers, and the countless contributions of all those who rendered Pakistan's defence unassailable. This day underscores Pakistan's steadfast commitment to preserving its sovereignty and territorial integrity. It affirms our doctrine of credible minimum deterrence, rooted in the principle of maintaining peace and strategic stability in the region. The Armed Forces of Pakistan reiterate their unflinching resolve to defend the motherland against all threats across the full spectrum of conflict. As responsible custodians of the nation's strategic assets, we reaffirm that our nuclear capability remains solely for defensive purposes and stands as a guarantor of peace. Let this day renew our collective pledge to remain vigilant, united, and resolute in our commitment to the security, progress, and prosperity of our beloved homeland. The Armed Forces stand in solidarity with the nation, honouring the sacrifices that made this milestone possible and continuing the journey toward strength, stability, and self-reliance. The team of Pakistan's scientists led by founder of Pakistan's nuclear programme, Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, and Dr Samar Mubarakmand carried out nuclear tests in the RasKoh Hills in the Chaghai District of Balochistan. In his message on the occasion of Youm-e-Takbeer, President said that Pakistan's nuclear capability continues to serve as a credible minimum deterrent that guarantees peace and ensures no one can undermine our sovereignty and national security. He said Pakistan does not seek conflict and is committed to the principles of peaceful coexistence and respect for international law. Asif Ali Zardari said that Pakistan demonstrated its strategic patience and commitment to peace in the face of recent unprovoked Indian aggression. In his message on the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed Pakistan's nuclear journey and called for renewed unity and determination to transform the country into an economic power. The Prime Minister linked this year's commemoration with what he described as Pakistan's recent success in defending itself from an unjustified war imposed by India. He urged the nation to carry the spirit of Youm-e-Takbeer beyond defense and into economic transformation.
Express Tribune
6 days ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Impregnable and invincible
Listen to article As the nation proudly celebrated Youm-e-Takbeer, it was highly indebted to the luminary nuclear scientists, the visionary political leadership and the resilient civil, military bureaucracy that underwent all odds for decades, but never compromised on its security and sovereignty. The Chagai May 28, 1998 atomic tests were in response to India's provocative jingoism of 'Smiling Buddha', and surely Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan and Dr Samar Mubarakmand deserve our praise and salutation. Likewise, former PM Nawaz Sharif's apt decision to call the Indian bluff blessed Pakistan with the desired deterrence to stand tall among the comity of nations. This nuclear threshold has come to guard Pakistan as New Delhi opted for aggression early this month, and the befitting response from our armed forces and the nation is more than enough to keep the Hindutva-dispensation well within its limits. Pakistan, as the seventh nuclear power in the globe and the only one in the Islamic world, is a power to be reckoned with. Moreover, its impregnable defence exhibited its glory and the world, including India, today recognises its superiority in all forms and manifestations. The lethal response in self-defence, after four days of Indian onslaught, not only surprised the pundits of doom in India but also made global strategists come out in praise of Pakistan as it never let loose interstate and diplomatic ethics. Now is the time to build on that treasure trove and let the nation unite on a single cardinal principle: no to submission, and no compromise on security. There is an opportunity in disaster for India to start talking to Pakistan, and iron out the intricate differences on the diplomatic front. The two states have fought four wars: 1948, 1965, 1971 and 2025. More to it is the Kargil episode of 1999, and countless skirmishes, border clashes and intrusions. But the outcome is single-pointer: the dispute of Kashmir is in need of being resolved. Now India's shenanigans such as abrogating Kashmir's special status and suspending IWT are self-defeating in the long run. As Islamabad has offered to talk, it's time to demonstrate leadership and bury the hatchet for a better tomorrow.
Express Tribune
6 days ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Why Dr AQ Khan still matters
Listen to article This nation dearly misses you, Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan. You are remembered with deep respect and gratitude for gifting Pakistan the nuclear capability that has enabled the country to stand firm in its strategic defence. Your true worth was once again realised when India reacted like a raging elephant after the Pahalgam terrorist attack on 22 April, hastily accusing Pakistan without presenting any credible evidence. India launched an irresponsible and disproportionate response under a self-declared operation misleadingly named — Sindoor — after a false-flag activity. Civilian areas were targeted through air strikes conducted with drones and fighter jets. Pakistan's government and armed forces exercised the right to self-defence with remarkable professionalism and restraint. In response, the Pakistan Air Force not only defended our airspace but also humbled Indian military arrogance. The so-called superior Rafael jets failed to make an impact, while Pakistan's air defence successfully brought down three aircraft, including a MiG-21, and challenged the capabilities of the Su-30s. This defeat led to a sarcastic reinterpretation of Rafale in India — RAW Fail. India was taken aback by Pakistan's measured yet precise retaliation, which directly hit Indian military installations and air defence targets. The professionalism and precision of the PAF silenced the aggressive posturing of the Indian military, often dubbed the "mad elephant". The United States had to intervene to de-escalate the skirmishes, which were dangerously close to triggering a nuclear confrontation in South Asia. It is because of Dr AQ Khan's contributions that Pakistan today possesses a credible deterrent. His work has empowered the nation to stand tall in the face of external threats and deter aggression through strength. Though Pakistan may not match India in economic size, conventional military strength or war equipment on paper, it remains resolute and capable of defending its sovereignty under any circumstance. All honour and tribute go to Dr AQ Khan — the man who gave Pakistan the power to respond to threats on an equal footing. Let us now compare Pakistan and India in terms of military capability across the three branches — Army, Navy and Air Force — and evaluate their strengths in terms of war equipment and strategic positioning. India stands as the fourth-strongest military power in the world, while Pakistan is ranked 12th. India's total military strength is said to be nearly three times more than Pakistan's. It also possesses much more military arsenal than Pakistan does. Silencing the guns of a hegemonic India became possible when Pakistan declared itself a nuclear power capable of retaliation. This strategic milestone was achieved on 28 May 1998, when Pakistan conducted nuclear tests in the hills of Chagai — a moment now commemorated as Youm-e-Takbeer. At the heart of this historic moment was the unparalleled contribution of Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan — the father of Pakistan's nuclear programme. A metallurgist with rare expertise, Dr AQ Khan had a singular mission: to make his homeland invincible. His relentless efforts transformed Pakistan from a security-dependent nation into a nuclear power with credible deterrence. The genesis of this nuclear journey lies in the painful memory of the 1971 war and the dismemberment of the country. It is no coincidence that then Prime Minister of Pakistan Zulfikar Ali Bhutto — who famously stated, "we will eat grass, even go hungry, but we will get one of our own [nuclear bomb]" — laid the foundation of Pakistan's nuclear ambition. The humiliation of 1971 was a turning point. Pakistan realised that conventional military parity with India would never be enough. Nuclear deterrence was no longer a choice — it had become a strategic necessity. Today, we must ask ourselves: Are we doing enough to honour the sacrifices and genius that made this feat possible? Are we investing in science and technology beyond military applications? Are we preserving our national dignity not only through strength but also through progress? And in the end, we must not forget Dr AQ Khan's heartfelt words: "My biggest regret is working for this nation."
Business Recorder
7 days ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
‘Youm-e-Takbeer' today
LAHORE: 'Youm-e-Takbeer', to commemorate the nuclear tests conducted by Pakistan on May 28, 1998, is being observed on Wednesday (today) with a firm resolve to safeguard country's territorial integrity, independence and sovereignty. The government has already declared public holiday on Wednesday and all the public and private entities will remain closed. On May 28, 1998, Pakistan became the seventh nuclear nation of the world and the first Muslim state having the nuclear arsenal in its defence stockpile. The team of Pakistan's scientists led by founder of Pakistan's nuclear programme, Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan and Dr Samar Mubarakmand carried out nuclear tests in the RasKoh Hills in the Chaghai District of Balochistan. These tests not only demonstrated the resolve of the Pakistani nation to safeguard Pakistan's territorial integrity, independence and sovereignty, but also the desire to preserve strategic balance in South Asia. Public holiday on occasion of Youm-e-Takbeer It may be added that the historic statement of former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto that they would starve, but transform the country into a nuclear power, led to achievement of this milestone. By resisting the mounting external pressures, the then prime minister Nawaz Sharif went for taking the bold decision to test the Pakistani nukes in response to Indian nuclear tests and thus balancing the strategic slanting power in the region. To mark the day, rallies, seminars and other functions will be held. TV channels will present special programmes. 'May 28 holds a historic significance in Pakistan's history. This day is a symbol of our national sovereignty, security, and unity,' Punjab's Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs, Ramesh Singh Arora, said, adding: 'Pakistan is a peaceful nuclear power and we take great pride in this fact. Under the courageous leadership of Mian Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan conducted nuclear tests and sent a clear message to the world that we will never compromise on our freedom and sovereignty.' He said, 'On Youm-e-Takbeer, we pay tribute to our scientists, armed forces, and political leadership who made the country's defense invincible.' He further emphasized that minorities are equal participants in the defense and development of the nation, and Youm-e-Takbeer is a matter of collective pride for all Pakistanis, regardless of their religion. Moreover, Punjab Minister for Sports, Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar attended a solemn ceremony held at Government Graduate College for Women, Samanabad in connection with Youm-e-Takbeer. Speaking on the occasion, Faisal said that May 28 is a day that symbolises Pakistan's defense sovereignty and stands as a shining emblem of our national pride, resilience, and unity. He emphasised that Youm-e-Takbeer not only marks Pakistan's emergence as an invincible nuclear power on the world map but also reminds us of the sacrifices, unity, and determination of the nation. He paid tribute to the leader of Pakistan Muslim League-N, Mian Nawaz Sharif, acknowledging that it was due to his courageous leadership that Pakistan became a nuclear power and thwarted the malicious intentions of its enemies. The provincial minister highlighted the importance of honoring our martyrs, scientists, engineers, and all those who contributed to the successful completion of the nuclear program. He further stated that it is our duty to educate the younger generation about the significance of Youm-e-Takbeer so they can draw inspiration from the sacrifices of their forefathers and play an active role in the development and defense of the nation. Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar reaffirmed his commitment that Pakistan is ready to make every sacrifice for its security and sovereignty. On this occasion, the entire college resonated with patriotic fervor as students highlighted the significance of the day through national songs and speeches. The event was attended by the college's principal Rashida Qureshi, Vice Principal Mehwish Ali, faculty members, and a large number of students. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
India.com
11-05-2025
- Politics
- India.com
THIS Indian- Origin Scientist Became Father Of Pakistan's Nuclear Bomb — All You Need To Know About Him
photoDetails english 2899588 Updated:May 11, 2025, 04:56 PM IST Father Of Pakistan's Nuclear Bomb 1 / 7 Scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan moved to Pakistan after the 1947 partition. He is known as the 'father of Pakistan's nuclear bomb.' He was awarded the Nishan-i-Imtiaz, one of the country's highest civilian honours, for his role in making Pakistan a nuclear power. He was the man who made Pakistan the first islamic country to have to construct and operate commercial nuclear plants. In 1981, Pakistan's nuclear research complex was renamed Dr AQ Khan Research Laboratories by Mohammed Zia ul-Haq. Known as national hero in Pakistan, Khan was secretly smuggling nuclear weapons technology to countries like Iran, Libya and North Korea. Abdul Qadeer Khan's Academia 2 / 7 Khan graduated from the University of Karachi with a degree in metallurgy in 1960. later he pursued graduate studies abroad, first in West Berlin and then in Delft, Netherlands, where in 1967 he received a master's degree in metallurgy. In 1972 he earned a doctorate in metallurgical engineering from the Catholic University of Leuven in Belgium. Abdul Qadeer Khan 'Nuclear Smuggler' 3 / 7 According to ANI, After India conducted a nuclear test in 1974, Khan reportedly wrote to Pakistan's then Prime Minister Zulkar Ali Bhutto and joined his nation's clandestine efforts to develop nuclear power. According to several media reports, he later stole secret designs and sensitive information while working in Europe. He was subsequently convicted in absentia by a Dutch court for nuclear espionage. If the conspiracy is to be believed, Khan stole drawings of centrifuges and compiled a list of mainly European suppliers from whom parts could be procured. Abdul Qadeer Khan Connection With India 4 / 7 Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan was born on April 1, 1936 in Bhopal, India. He moved to Pakistan after the 1947 partition and immigrated to West Pakistan in 1952. Khan later became a key figure in Pakistan's nuclear weapons program. He was also involved for decades in a black market for nuclear technology, becoming one of the world's most notorious nuclear smugglers. Abdul Qadeer Khan - Metallurgist 5 / 7 Abdul Qadeer Khan a key figure in Pakistan's nuclear weapons program who earned degrees in metallurgical engineering from top European institutions and played a key role in building Pakistan's uranium-based bomb. In 1972, Khan began working in Netherlands at Physical Dynamic Research Laboratory (FDO), a subcontractor of Ultra Centrifuge Nederland (UCN). Khan worked as a nuclear scientist for the government for nearly ove three decades, building Pakistan's nuclear capabilities and testing its first nuclear device in 1998. Controversial Figure 6 / 7 Abdul Qadeer Khan's is one of the most controversial figure, from his nuclear bomb innovation to the smuggling of secret information. Pressured by the US, President Pervez Musharraf removed Khan from the national nuclear laboratory, although he retained him as a scientific adviser to the government. In 2004, Khan apologised to the nation for his illicit proliferation activities in a public broadcast. 'I take full responsibility for my actions and seek your pardon.' Khan had said. He was later pardoned by Musharraf but placed under house arrest at his palatial home in Islamabad. He was released in 2009, but his movements were strictly monitored and remain a subject of debate. Abdul Qadeer Khan Death 7 / 7 Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan regarded as the father of Pakistan's nuclear programme, passed away at 85 on October 10, 2021 after a brief illness. To millions of Pakistani's, he was a national hero. According to Reuters, Khan had tested positive for COVID-19 in August and was initially admitted to the Khan Research Laboratories Hosptial. As his condition worsened, he was transferred to a military hospital in Rawalpindi. Khan was discharged after a few weeks, his health deteriorated again, and he was readmitted, as reported by Al Jazeera reported. (All Images: ANI/ X )
