PAKISTAN ZINDABAD

COAS Pays Tribute to Heroes of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos as PM Declares National Day of Gratitude

RAWALPINDI – Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, during a visit to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Rawalpindi, paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of soldiers and civilians injured during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos—the decisive retaliatory strike by Pakistan in response to Indian aggression earlier this month.

In a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief individually met with the wounded personnel and lauded their unwavering courage and devotion to duty. He reaffirmed the armed forces’ commitment to the care, rehabilitation, and long-term welfare of all those affected.

“No hostile design can shake the resolve of Pakistan’s Armed Forces,” General Munir declared. “The valour and sacrifice of our civilians and soldiers form the cornerstone of the nation’s security. The nation stands united in unwavering solidarity with its defenders.”

The military campaign, codenamed Marka-e-Haq (Battle for Truth), spanned from April 22 to May 10. The operation culminated in Operation Bunyanum Marsoos on May 10—a day that is now etched as a defining moment in Pakistan’s military history. Pakistan Armed Forces launched the operation in retaliation to a series of Indian attacks, including one on the night of May 6–7 that killed innocent civilians, including women, children, and the elderly.

According to DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Pakistan struck 26 Indian military facilities and flew dozens of drones over major Indian cities, including New Delhi, during the operation. These actions, the military says, fulfilled Pakistan’s vow of justice and retribution.

To honour the significance of this victory, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has declared May 10 to be observed annually as “Youm-e-Marka-e-Haq” (Day of the Battle for Truth). Additionally, Friday, May 16, 2025, will be marked as a National Day of Gratitude, with special prayers across the country in thanksgiving.

“The professionalism and sacrifice shown by our brave Armed Forces have elevated the nation’s pride,” said Prime Minister Shehbaz. He emphasized that the government is fully committed to supporting all those affected during the operation.

As part of a major relief and recognition package, the Prime Minister announced:

  • Rs10 million in compensation for each civilian martyred.
  • Rs1–2 million for injured civilians, depending on severity.
  • For martyred military personnel:
    • Rs10–18 million compensation based on rank.
    • Rs19–42 million in housing assistance.
    • Full salaries and allowances until retirement age.
    • Free education for children up to graduation.
    • Rs1 million marriage grant for one daughter per martyr.
  • Rs2–5 million for injured military personnel.
  • The government will cover all treatment costs for injured civilians and soldiers.
  • Reconstruction of all damaged homes and mosques due to Indian strikes.

The Prime Minister also announced that all individuals who contributed to the country’s defence, regardless of their rank or role, will be formally honoured at the national level with official awards.

As the guns fall silent and recovery begins, the unified front shown by the armed forces and the nation has, according to both military and civilian leadership, sent a clear message: Pakistan will neither compromise on its sovereignty nor forget the sacrifices made in its defence.