President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday approved 355 civil awards in connection with the Independence Day celebrations. The approval was given on a summary sent by the Prime Minister, which aims to honor Pakistani citizens and expatriates who have excelled in various fields including science, medicine, arts and literature.

Apart from the civil awards, the President also approved a summary of special amnesty in sentences for eligible prisoners in jails across the country. Although initial reports put the number of awards at 370, according to official details issued from Islamabad, final approval has been given for 355 awards.

Details of Independence Day Awards

The approved list includes those domestic and foreign personalities who have rendered valuable services in their respective fields. These honors traditionally include Nishan-i-Imtiaz, Halal-i-Imtiaz, Stara-i-Imtiaz and the Presidential Medal of Excellence.

The full gazette notification of the awardees will be issued by the Cabinet Division. This year, foreign personalities who played a key role in strengthening bilateral relations with Pakistan have also been included.

Remission of sentences for prisoners

Along with the national honours, the President also ordered commutation of sentences for prisoners who meet the prescribed legal criteria. However, criminals involved in serious crimes, terrorism and anti-state activities will not be eligible for this amnesty.

The details of the prisoners will be checked in the light of the instructions of the federal government on behalf of the provincial home department. Families whose members are in jails can get information about amnesty rules by contacting the concerned jail authorities.

What should you do next?

  • Check the official website of Cabinet Division for the final list and names of civil awards.
  • If you have a loved one in prison, get information from the concerned Jail Superintendent regarding the principles of remission of sentences.
  • Keep an eye out for detailed lists of award winners on reputable news outlets.

What to watch next

Wait for official gazette notification from cabinet division in coming days. The provincial governments will also soon issue regulations regarding the release of prisoners in jails and reduction of sentences.