March 23 is not merely a date on the calendar; it is a moment of reckoning. As Pakistan marks 85 years since the Lahore Resolution, the occasion demands both celebration and introspection—a recognition of past sacrifices and a candid assessment of responsibilities that remain unfulfilled. It is a reminder that the nation’s foundation was laid not just through political manoeuvring but through an unyielding struggle for dignity and justice.
The journey of those who crossed borders in 1947 was more than a migration; it was a test of faith and endurance. Today, as Pakistan faces a new era of challenges—economic instability, digital misinformation, and ideological extremism—one pressing question persists: Have we upheld the ideals for which Pakistan was founded, or have they been diluted by the passage of time?
Pakistan’s greatest strength has never been its geography but its people’s resolve. The true challenge is not adversity itself, but the apathy with which it is often met. Patriotism must transcend rhetoric; it must be measured in actions that counter extremism, foster knowledge, and uphold truth. As poet-philosopher Allama Iqbal asserted, an individual is only as strong as their commitment to the collective good. The principles of unity, faith, and discipline remain as vital today as they were at independence.
Beyond the nation’s struggles, Pakistan’s resilience is evident in its evolving economic landscape. The rise of digital banking, fintech startups, and entrepreneurship is reshaping the country’s financial future. With much of the population still underbanked, firms like Easypaisa, JazzCash, and Finja have revolutionized financial accessibility, bringing millions into the formal economy. Women-led businesses are also gaining momentum, carving out a space in sectors historically dominated by men.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s diaspora continues to play a pivotal role, not just through remittances—which surged by 32.5 percent in 2025—but through investment and knowledge transfer. These contributions reflect a shift: Pakistan’s success is increasingly defined not by state-led initiatives but by the ingenuity and drive of its citizens.
As the world advances into an era dominated by artificial intelligence, nations must adapt or risk obsolescence. The developed world is redefining economic priorities, while Pakistan grapples with an underfunded education system, a workforce unprepared for digital transformation, and a staggering 78 percent learning poverty rate. The government’s "Uraan Pakistan" initiative, aimed at modernizing curricula and integrating AI and digital skills, is a step forward, but execution remains a challenge. With public education spending still below 2 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), private institutions and non governmental organizations (NGOs) such as The Citizens Foundation and Zindagi Trust are filling the gaps, yet disparities persist.
The future hinges on Pakistan’s ability to bridge the divide between policy ambition and on-the-ground execution. Despite minimal investment in research and development, the country has produced global tech talent. If it can harness this potential, Pakistan may yet secure its place in the AI-driven economy.
Beyond economic progress, Pakistan stands as a custodian of history, where traditions thrive and languages persist. It preserves architectural heritage, fosters poetry and music, and safeguards cultural identity—luxuries unattainable in nations fractured by war, famine, and internal strife.
More than a geographical entity, Pakistan grants its people a recognized identity in the global order—something stateless communities continue to fight for. It is a foundation upon which generations have built better lives.
As Pakistan celebrates its past, the question endures: What have we given back to this country? The answer must be more than silence. It must be a renewed commitment to education, innovation, and unity. It must be an acknowledgment that Pakistan’s strength lies not just in its history but in its people’s willingness to shape its future.

Maria Khalid
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